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Irregular Bleeding and Periods

Irregular bleeding, also called abnormal uterine bleeding (which includes heavy periods, spotting, menstrual cycle changes, missing periods, and bleeding after menopause), affects women and people with menstrual cycles in all phases from menstruation to menopause. All Alpha Providers are specially trained in women’s health and can help determine the cause of your symptoms to give you personalized, whole-person treatment and care.

Care for Heavy Bleeding or Irregular Periods

What is considered irregular or heavy bleeding?
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The following symptoms are considered irregular bleeding, or abnormal uterine bleeding:

  • Heavy bleeding during your period that soaks through one or more tampons or pads every hour
  • Bleeding or spotting after sex
  • Bleeding that lasts more than 7 days
  • Menstrual cycles that are longer than 35 days or shorter than 21 days
  • The length of your menstrual cycle varies by more than 7-9 days
  • Not having a period for 3-6 months
  • Bleeding after menopause
How does Alpha care for heavy bleeding or irregular periods?
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First, we’ll ask you a few questions about your medical history and your symptoms. Information about when you experience irregular bleeding and the amount is helpful to have on hand. Keeping track of your periods and when you experience irregular bleeding (including dates, length, and amount of bleeding) on a calendar can help you take charge of your health.

Depending on your health condition and symptoms, your Alpha Provider may coordinate some lab tests and/or imaging to determine the cause of irregular bleeding or periods. After your lab results are ready, your Alpha Provider will create a personalized treatment plan with you.

Is there a minimum commitment for Alpha Membership?
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If you’re currently experiencing a severe or sudden onset of heavy bleeding (for example, saturating more than one pad or tampon an hour for more than 3 hours), you should seek in-person care as soon as possible. An Alpha Provider will be able to diagnose and treat you after your condition has stabilized.

Any changes that you notice in your menstrual cycle, unexpected bleeding, or pain deserve care. With Alpha, you can receive care discreetly, on your schedule.

Prescription Medication for Heavy Bleeding or Irregular Periods

Most often, hormonal contraceptives are the first approach to treating irregular or heavy menstrual bleeding. Alpha offers several evidence-based medications, including some hormonal, non-contraceptive options. Your medication may be covered by your insurance plan - expand below for details. Shipping is always free when you choose our partner pharmacy to have your medication delivered to your door.

Hormonal Birth Control
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Irregular bleeding can be managed with certain hormonal birth control methods. See the types and brands we carry.

Hormonal Treatment (non-contraceptive)
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  • Oriahnn (brand for elagolix and estradiol and norethisterone)
  • Myfembree (brand for relugolix, estradiol, and norethindrone)
Non-hormonal Treatment (non-contraceptive)
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  • Lysteda™ (brand for tranexamic acid)

How it works

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Describe Your Symptoms

Answer questions about your health condition online.

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Connect with a Medical Provider

A medical provider will review your responses and send an appropriate treatment plan. Your care is evidence-based and personalized at every visit.

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Get Whole-person Care

Your care team will respond to any questions through our secure messaging platform and you can get medication at your preferred pharmacy.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

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Do you experience irregular periods with other symptoms like excessive hair growth, hair loss, weight gain, or skin changes? Connect with an Alpha Provider to learn about PCOS, a common hormonal disorder.

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