Does tranexamic acid help with heavy periods?

During menstruation, the lining of the uterus sheds and small blood vessels open. Tranexamic acid slows the breakdown of clots at these sites, so bleeding may be lighter while you take it. It is generally used only during the bleeding days described by your prescriber, not continuously through the cycle.

The medicine may help whether heavy bleeding is related to a temporary pattern or a condition such as fibroids, but improvement does not identify the cause. Heavy periods can also lead to tiredness or iron deficiency, which may need separate assessment.

Take it exactly as prescribed and keep a record of bleeding, clots, flooding, pain and missed activities. Ask before using it if you have had a blood clot, kidney disease, problems with colour vision, or are taking medicines that affect clotting. Your clinician may choose a different approach depending on your history.

Arrange a review if bleeding remains disruptive, returns after treatment, or happens between periods or after sex. Evaluation may include questions, an examination and tests for anaemia or other causes.

Get urgent medical help if bleeding is so heavy that you feel faint, weak, breathless or confused, or if you are soaking through protection repeatedly and cannot keep up with it. Seek urgent advice for chest pain, sudden breathlessness, coughing blood, or a painful swollen leg while taking the medicine.

Is tranexamic acid suitable with my medical history and medicines? On which days should I take it? How will we investigate the reason for my heavy periods? Do I need an iron check, contraception review or another treatment as well?