Heavy period: what to do next

Heavy menstrual bleeding may occur with hormonal changes, fibroids, adenomyosis, polyps, endometrial hyperplasia, or polycystic ovary syndrome. Some people develop iron deficiency anaemia after repeated blood loss, which may cause exhaustion, headaches, dizziness, or breathlessness. The symptom alone cannot show which cause is present. The pattern, age, pregnancy possibility, pain, medicines, and examination findings guide the next step.

Note when the bleeding began, how frequently you change pads or tampons, whether clots are present, and whether pain or bleeding between periods occurs. Rest, drink fluids, and keep a list of medicines and contraception. Do not take someone else’s prescription or start iron without discussing the right product and dose. A clinician may check blood counts and iron, test for pregnancy when relevant, and consider an ultrasound or other evaluation.

Get urgent care if bleeding is very rapid, you are fainting, have new severe pelvic pain, feel weak with a racing heartbeat, or develop breathlessness at rest. Seek prompt advice for bleeding after menopause, bleeding during pregnancy, or a sudden change from your usual pattern. Bring your bleeding record so the clinician can judge how quickly you need review.

Ask whether you need blood tests, what causes fit your symptoms, which treatments are safe with your medicines, and how soon to return if the bleeding continues or worsens.