stopping heavy menstrual bleeding (other pathology excluded)

Last reviewed 06/2023

Oral progestogens at large doses such as norethisterone 30 mg daily can be successfully used to control torrential bleeding (flooding):

  • a regime of norethisterone at a dose of 30mg per day is inititated (which is generally effective within 24-48 h); the dose can then be reduced by 5mg per day and then stopped. This regime will be followed by a withdrawal bleed

The cause for the heavy menstrual bleeding must be investigated.

Reference:

  1. Oehler MK, Rees MCP. Menorrhagia: an update. Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica 2003; 82 (5): 405-422