Implantation bleeding and heavy flow

Implantation bleeding is generally described as light spotting around the time an early pregnancy could begin. Bleeding that is heavy, lasts beyond a short episode, contains clots, or soaks through period products may instead be a period, an early pregnancy problem, or another cause of abnormal uterine bleeding.

Heavy periods can be associated with uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, endometrial polyps, endometrial hyperplasia, polycystic ovary syndrome, or perimenopause. Ongoing blood loss can contribute to iron deficiency anaemia, which may cause tiredness, breathlessness, dizziness, or paleness.

If pregnancy is possible, take a home pregnancy test when appropriate for the timing of your cycle and repeat it if advised. Note when the bleeding began, how quickly products become saturated, whether clots or pain occur, and whether you feel faint. Arrange a clinician review for unexpectedly heavy or recurrent bleeding; assessment may include a pregnancy test, examination, blood tests, or imaging.

Seek urgent medical help for heavy bleeding with severe or one-sided abdominal pain, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, marked weakness, breathlessness, fever, or a positive pregnancy test. These symptoms can signal a complication that cannot be sorted out from bleeding colour or flow alone.

Ask what may be causing the flow, whether you need a pregnancy test or blood count, and which changes should prompt urgent help. Mention medicines, contraception, cycle changes, previous pregnancies, and any history of fibroids or anaemia.