Heavy Periods

Heavy periods, also known as heavy menstrual bleeding, are common and can affect your daily life. While everyone’s flow is different, periods are considered heavy if you regularly bleed a lot or for more days than usual. There are treatments and ways to manage it, especially if it is impacting your health or routine.

What are Heavy Periods?

Heavy periods mean you lose more blood than normal during menstruation. This might include soaking through pads or tampons quickly, passing large blood clots, or bleeding for more than 7 days. In some cases, heavy periods can be caused by conditions like fibroids, polyps, or hormonal imbalance, but sometimes there is no clear reason.

How to manage heavy periods

  • Track your period using a diary or app to understand your pattern
  • Use high-absorbency pads or menstrual cups designed for heavy flow
  • Take anti-inflammatory pain relief like ibuprofen to help reduce bleeding and cramps
  • Eat iron-rich foods or take supplements if you feel tired or lightheaded
  • Speak to a doctor about treatment options like the contraceptive pill, hormonal coil, or other medicines
  • Stay hydrated and rest if you feel fatigued
  • Keep spare sanitary products with you when out and about

Common symptoms

  • Needing to change sanitary products every 1 to 2 hours
  • Passing large blood clots during your period
  • Bleeding for more than 7 days
  • Feeling tired, weak, or short of breath during your period
  • Lower tummy pain or cramps during menstruation

Reviews

Speak to a Specialist

If heavy periods are making life difficult, a simple video consultation can help you find the right solution. Speak to a clinician to discuss safe treatment options based on your needs and health history.

FAQs

If you bleed through products quickly, pass clots, or bleed for more than 7 days, it may be considered heavy.
Yes, there are many treatments, including medicines, hormonal options, and lifestyle advice.
Not always, but they can be linked to other health issues, so it is best to get checked.
Eat iron-rich foods like leafy greens, red meat, and lentils to help with blood loss.
Yes, especially if your bleeding is affecting your daily life or causing tiredness.