Heavy periods can be uncomfortable and disruptive, but a heavier flow doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong. Some people are naturally bloodier than others. But if you have a change in your usual period, very heavy bleeding or symptoms such as tiredness and dizziness, you may need medical attention.
What Constitutes A Heavy Period?
Heavy menstrual bleeding is when you lose more blood than normal during your period or your period lasts longer than normal. A heavy period might be when you need to change a pad or tampon every hour for a few hours, if you bleed through your clothing or bedding often, or if you pass large blood clots.
Bleeding longer than seven days can also be a sign of heavy menstrual bleeding. But menstrual patterns vary, so your normal cycle and any recent changes are important in deciding if your bleeding needs to be evaluated.
When Is Menstrual Bleeding Too Heavy?
If it’s your usual pattern and your cycles are otherwise predictable, and you don’t have symptoms that affect your daily life, a naturally heavy period may still be normal. Others might notice changes in menstrual flow during puberty, after having a baby or around perimenopause.
However, it is useful to discuss heavy bleeding with a doctor when it is ongoing, especially if it is harder to cope with or interferes with work, sleep, exercise, or other routine activities.
When Should I See A Gynecologist?
You may also want to see a gynecologist if your periods have suddenly become much heavier, last longer than they normally do, or are associated with a lot of pain. It is also important to seek a medical evaluation if you are feeling unusually tired, weak, short of breath or dizzy. Sometimes prolonged heavy bleeding can lead to iron-deficiency anemia.
Seek emergency medical attention if you are soaking a pad or tampon every hour for several hours in a row, especially if you have dizziness, fainting, severe weakness, or shortness of breath.
What Causes Heavy Menstrual Bleeding?
There are a number of conditions that can cause heavy periods. They include fibroids, which are noncancerous growths in the uterus, and polyps, which are growths in the lining of the uterus. Other possible causes include hormonal changes, adenomyosis, thyroid problems, bleeding disorders and certain medicines.
Sometimes the cause isn’t readily apparent. A gynecologist can help determine what may be causing the bleeding.
Assessment of Severe Bleeding
Your doctor may ask about your menstrual pattern, how much you bleed, your pain, medicines and medical history. Depending on your symptoms, evaluation may include a physical exam, blood tests to look for anemia or thyroid problems, and an ultrasound or other tests when needed.
You might want to keep a record of your cycle, how often you change pads or tampons, how long you bleed, any clots and symptoms that go along with it. This can help your doctor see your pattern. If you are concerned about bleeding that is unusually heavy or doesn’t stop, you can consult a gynecology hospital in Indore to get an appropriate assessment and to understand the possible causes.
FAQs
1. How much bleeding is too much for a period?
Very heavy bleeding is when you soak through a pad or tampon every hour for several hours, have frequent leakage or bleed for more than seven days.
2. Is it normal to have big blood clots during periods?
During menstruation small clots can occur. Repeated passage of large clots, especially with very heavy bleeding, should be discussed with a doctor.
3. Can heavy periods lead to anemia?
Yes. If you keep losing blood heavily, eventually you can run out of iron and develop iron-deficiency anemia, which makes you tired, weak or short of breath.
4. Can fibroids lead to heavy periods?
Yes. Some women may have heavier or longer menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure or pain, and fibroids can affect the uterus.
5. Should I keep track of my menstrual bleeding?
Yes. It can also help to note when your periods are , how long you bleed for , how often you change your pad or tampon , if you have any clots and any symptoms you may have if you go to the doctor .