What should I check if I have low menstrual flow?

If you have low menstrual flow, you need to check six sex hormones, thyroid function, gynecological ultrasound, hysteroscopy, coagulation function and other items. Low menstrual flow may be related to endocrine disorders, endometrial damage, thyroid dysfunction, polycystic ovary syndrome, coagulation disorders and other factors.

1. Six items of sex hormones

By measuring the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, prolactin and other hormones, we can determine whether there are endocrine diseases such as ovarian hypofunction and polycystic ovary syndrome. The examination requires blood to be drawn on the 2nd to 4th day of menstruation. Abnormal results may be manifested as elevated follicle-stimulating hormone or abnormal testosterone levels.

2. Thyroid function

Hypothyroidism may lead to decreased menstrual flow, and tests include thyroid-stimulating hormone, free thyroxine and other indicators. Low thyroid hormone levels can affect ovarian function, leading to insufficient endometrial hyperplasia, low menstrual flow or even amenorrhea.

3. Gynecological ultrasound

Transvaginal or abdominal ultrasound can observe the uterine shape, endometrial thickness and ovarian condition, and rule out organic diseases such as intrauterine adhesions and endometrial polyps. The thickness of the endometrium during the normal proliferative period should be 5-10 mm. Too thin may affect menstrual flow.

4. Hysteroscopy

For patients with suspected intrauterine adhesions, hysteroscopy can directly observe the shape of the uterine cavity, diagnose the degree of adhesions, and simultaneously perform separation surgery. People with a history of multiple induced abortions or uterine cavity operations are prone to intrauterine adhesions, which are manifested by a progressive decrease in menstrual flow.

5. Coagulation function

Detect prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time and other indicators to rule out low menstrual flow caused by coagulation dysfunction. Certain blood diseases or long-term use of anticoagulant drugs may affect coagulation function and reduce menstrual bleeding.

If you find that you have scanty menstrual flow, you should record your bleeding for at least 3 menstrual cycles, avoid excessive dieting or strenuous exercise, and maintain a regular schedule. You can increase iron-containing foods such as animal liver, spinach, etc. to prevent anemia and avoid frequent use of tampons. If it is accompanied by symptoms such as headache, vision changes, or lactation, you need to seek medical treatment in time. Long-term low menstrual flow may affect fertility function. It is recommended to conduct systematic examination and treatment under the guidance of a doctor.