114: ENCORE | Heavy Periods: The Silent Epidemic with Dr Talat Uppal

Dear Menopause

In this popular episode, Dr. Talat Uppal, an obstetrician-gynecologist specialising in heavy menstrual bleeding, shares her expertise on a condition affecting one in four women yet rarely discussed openly.

This eye-opening conversation sheds light on how women often normalise suffering through periods that drastically impact their quality of life.
The discussion reveals shocking statistics: 25% of women experience heavy menstrual bleeding, yet more than half never seek medical help.

Dr. Uppal provides clear indicators of abnormal bleeding – passing large clots, changing protection every 1-2 hours, waking at night to change, using multiple protection types simultaneously, and embarrassing "flooding" episodes. These symptoms can lead to iron deficiency, anaemia, and significant quality of life impacts.
Learn about the spectrum of treatment options, from medications like Tranexamic Acid to the highly effective Mirena IUD and surgical interventions including endometrial ablation. She emphasises that most women find significant relief once properly treated, with many asking, "Why didn't I have this earlier? Why did I suffer so much?"
Perhaps most powerful is the exploration of how heavy bleeding becomes normalised at multiple levels – by women themselves, healthcare providers who don't offer full treatment options, and society that suggests women should simply endure until menopause. This normalisation condemns many to years of unnecessary suffering when effective solutions exist.
The conversation offers practical advice for women seeking help, emphasising the importance of advocating for yourself and being knowledgeable about available options.
Have you been suffering in silence? This conversation might be the catalyst for transforming your quality of life. Listen, learn, and advocate for your menstrual health.

Resources
Women's Health Road Clinic - website
Women's Health Road - Instagram
Women's Health Road - Linkedin

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Chapters

1. 114: ENCORE | Heavy Periods: The Silent Epidemic with Dr Talat Uppal (00:00:00)

2. Managing Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (00:00:01)

3. Options for Managing Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (00:12:38)

4. Support for Women With Heavy Periods (00:22:35)