What causes heavy periods?

Uterine fibroids, adenomyosis and endometrial polyps can alter the surface that bleeds. Polycystic ovary syndrome and perimenopause can disrupt ovulation, which changes how the uterine lining develops and sheds. Sometimes no single cause is found.

A period can be considered heavy when the flow forces frequent product changes, leaks through clothes or bedding, involves flooding or sizeable clots, lasts longer than your usual period, or limits normal activities. Comparing the flow with your own previous cycles is useful because menstrual patterns vary between people.

Timing offers clues. Long gaps followed by heavy flow can accompany irregular ovulation, while pelvic pressure may occur with fibroids. Painful heavy periods can occur with adenomyosis. These associations guide assessment but do not establish the cause by themselves.

Track several details: cycle dates, bleeding between periods or after sex, overnight changes, clots, pain, tiredness and breathlessness. Bring a list of prescribed medicines, non-prescription products and contraception. Mention a family history of unusually heavy bleeding, easy bruising or prolonged bleeding after dental work.

A clinician may tailor tests to your age, symptoms and pregnancy possibility. A blood count can look for anaemia, and other tests may assess iron, pregnancy, clotting or hormonal factors. An ultrasound or examination may be offered when a structural cause is suspected.

Get urgent care when bleeding is accompanied by fainting, severe dizziness, chest discomfort, shortness of breath at rest, confusion, pronounced weakness or a pounding heartbeat. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint or unsafe to travel alone.

Severe abdominal or pelvic pain with bleeding needs rapid assessment, particularly if pregnancy is possible. Fever, collapse, or bleeding after menopause also warrants prompt medical attention.

Find out whether your pattern suggests an ovulation problem, a uterine condition or a clotting issue. Ask what each proposed test would clarify, whether iron replacement is appropriate, which treatment choices suit your medical history, and how each option may affect pregnancy plans.