Final answer:
Menorrhagia defines a condition where there is excessive bleeding during a menstrual period, greatly surpassing the average blood loss of about 35 mL typically seen in menstruation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Definition of Menorrhagia
Menorrhagia is the medical term for excessive bleeding during a menstrual period. In contrast to normal menstrual flow, women with menorrhagia experience a substantially greater blood loss, which can be detrimental to their health. This condition is characterized by the loss of more than 80 mL of blood per menstrual cycle or periods lasting more than 7 days. Not only can menorrhagia lead to anemia due to significant blood loss, but it may also be a symptom of other underlying health issues.
Menstruation itself is a normal physiological process where the endometrium, the lining of the uterus, is shed if no fertilization occurs. It is part of the menstrual cycle which includes ovulation and ends with the onset of the menstrual period. Women typically experience blood loss of about 35 mL on average during menstruation, and this can be accompanied by uterine cramps. Menorrhagia differs from this norm by the intensity and volume of bleeding.
Other menstrual disorders include dysmenorrhea, which is associated with pain during menstruation, and amenorrhea, which refers to the stoppage of menstrual periods. Endometriosis, a condition where endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus, can also lead to significant pelvic pain and bleeding during menstrual periods. It's important for women who suspect they have menorrhagia to consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.