Heavy bleeding during the menstrual cycle

Look at the whole cycle: bleeding may be heavy at the start, last longer than expected, include clots, or return between periods. Note how often protection needs changing, whether sleep or work is affected, and whether pain or dizziness occurs. This information helps distinguish a temporary variation from a pattern needing care.

Causes can include fibroids, adenomyosis, endometrial polyps, endometrial hyperplasia, polycystic ovary syndrome, or the changing hormone pattern of perimenopause. Repeated loss may contribute to [Iron Deficiency Anaemia](/conditions/iron-deficiency-anaemia/). The symptom does not identify one cause by itself, and a clinician may need an examination or scan.

Arrange a medical review if the pattern is new, worsening, or affecting your routines. Bring a cycle diary, medication list, and details of contraception or pregnancy plans. Ask whether blood tests are needed and what treatment options fit your diagnosis. Do not stop prescribed medicines without advice, even if you suspect they affect bleeding.

Get urgent care if heavy flow is rapidly increasing, you feel faint, unusually weak, breathless, or confused, or severe pelvic pain occurs. Bleeding with a possible pregnancy needs prompt assessment. Bleeding after menopause also requires medical review rather than being attributed to a normal cycle.

Ask whether your symptoms suggest a structural, hormonal, or medication-related cause; whether anaemia testing is suitable; and what warning signs should send you to an emergency service.