Period bleeding not stopping: what to know

Prolonged bleeding can occur when ovulation is irregular, including with polycystic ovary syndrome. Hormonal transitions such as menopause or premature ovarian insufficiency can also alter the pattern. Turner syndrome and other medical conditions may affect ovarian function. Medication, pregnancy-related problems, polyps, fibroids, or changes in the womb lining are other possibilities, so the symptom alone cannot identify its cause.

Ongoing blood loss can leave you tired, breathless, dizzy, or pale and may contribute to iron deficiency. Tell the clinician how often you change pads or tampons, whether you pass clots, and whether pain or pregnancy is possible.

Contact a gynaecologist or primary-care clinician rather than waiting for the bleeding to resolve on its own. Bring a list of medicines and contraception, and record the bleeding pattern. Evaluation may include pregnancy testing, blood tests, an examination, and imaging or womb-lining assessment when needed. Use menstrual products that let you judge the flow, and take only medicines suitable for you after checking with a clinician or pharmacist.

Seek emergency help if you are soaking through products rapidly, feel faint, have chest pain, shortness of breath, severe pain, or cannot keep fluids down. Bleeding with a possible pregnancy also needs prompt assessment.

Ask what is likely to be causing the prolonged bleeding, whether you need tests for anaemia, how to control the flow safely, and which warning signs mean you should return urgently.