Period too heavy: what to know

Heavy menstrual bleeding may involve clots, flooding, bleeding through protection, or needing to change protection very often. Uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, endometrial polyps, and endometrial hyperplasia can change how the uterine lining sheds. Polycystic ovary syndrome and perimenopause can make ovulation irregular, which may produce unpredictable or heavy bleeding. Ongoing blood loss can lead to iron deficiency anaemia, with tiredness, breathlessness, dizziness, or paleness.

Track bleeding days, clots, protection changes, pain, and any bleeding between periods or after sex. Mention pregnancy possibility, contraception, medicines, and bleeding disorders in your history. A clinician may examine you and arrange blood tests, including a blood count and iron assessment. Depending on your symptoms, ultrasound or another test may help identify changes in the uterus. Treatments vary, so avoid taking someone else’s medication.

Book an appointment if heavy bleeding keeps returning, lasts longer than expected, causes fatigue, or interferes with work, sleep, or usual activities. Seek urgent care if bleeding is soaking protection repeatedly, you feel faint or short of breath, or severe pain, fever, or possible pregnancy is present.

Could anaemia or a uterine condition explain my bleeding? Which examination or scan is appropriate? What treatment options fit my health, contraception needs, and plans for pregnancy?