Symptoms
What counts as a heavy period?
A period is heavy if you change a pad or tampon every 1 to 2 hours, pass clots bigger than about 2.5cm, bleed through to clothes or bedding, or bleed for more than 7 days. It may simply be normal for you, but if it gets in the way of your life, get it checked. It is common and treatable.
What are the signs of a heavy period?
Many people have heavy periods, and they may simply be normal for you. The NHS lists these signs that a period is heavy:
- Changing a pad or tampon every 1 to 2 hours, or emptying a menstrual cup more often than recommended.
- Needing two products at once, like a pad and a tampon.
- Periods lasting more than 7 days.
- Passing clots larger than about 2.5cm.
- Bleeding through to clothes or bedding.
- Avoiding things, or taking time off, because of your period.
- Feeling tired or short of breath a lot.
What causes heavy periods?
It can be linked to fibroids, endometriosis, adenomyosis, PCOS, pelvic infection, bleeding disorders, or some medicines. Rarely, it’s a sign of womb cancer, which is one reason it’s worth getting checked.
What can a doctor do about heavy periods?
A blood test can check for low iron (anaemia), which heavy periods can cause. Treatments include the hormonal coil (IUS), the combined pill, and tablets like tranexamic acid or mefenamic acid. If those don’t help, a specialist can talk through other options.
When should I see a doctor about heavy periods?
See a doctor if:
- Heavy periods are affecting your life.
- You’ve had heavy periods for some time.
- You have severe pain during your periods.
- You bleed between periods or after sex.
- Heavy periods come with pain when peeing, pooing or having sex.
Frequently asked questions
Can heavy periods cause tiredness?
Yes. Heavy periods can cause low iron (anaemia), and feeling very tired or short of breath a lot is one of the signs the NHS lists. A blood test can check.
How many pads or tampons is too many?
Needing to change every 1 to 2 hours, or needing two products at once like a pad and a tampon, is a sign your period is heavy.
Are heavy periods a sign of something serious?
Usually not, but they can be linked to fibroids, endometriosis, adenomyosis, PCOS, infection, bleeding disorders or some medicines. Rarely it can be a sign of womb cancer, which is one reason to get checked.
Sources
Seventh is a free period and cycle tracker for iPhone and iPad, by doogud. This article is general information, not medical advice. If something feels wrong, see a doctor.
