Heavy bleeding and pain during your period

Adenomyosis, uterine fibroids, endometrial polyps, and endometrial hyperplasia can present with heavy menstrual bleeding. Polycystic ovary syndrome may make cycles irregular, which can lead to heavier bleeding when a period arrives. Perimenopause can also change both flow and cramps. Heavy bleeding may contribute to iron deficiency anaemia, which can cause tiredness, breathlessness, headaches, or paleness.

Track the first and last bleeding day, how often you change protection, clots, pain location, missed activities, and any bleeding between periods. Book an appointment if the pattern is new, worsening, or affecting work, sleep, or exercise. A clinician may review medicines and pregnancy possibility, examine you, and decide whether blood tests or imaging are useful. Treatment depends on the cause and your pregnancy plans.

Seek urgent care if bleeding is rapidly heavy, you feel faint or breathless, pain is severe or sudden, you have fever, or pregnancy is possible. Immediate assessment is also sensible when weakness prevents normal activity or pain feels different from your usual period.

Ask whether your symptoms suggest a uterine cause or anaemia, which tests are appropriate, and what treatment can protect fertility or fit your contraception plans. Mention pain between periods, during sex, or with bowel or bladder movements.