How to reduce heavy periods

Heavy menstrual bleeding may mean needing to change protection frequently, passing large clots, bleeding through clothes or bedding, or having periods that interfere with work and daily life. Causes can include uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, endometrial polyps, hormonal changes in perimenopause, polycystic ovary syndrome and thickening of the womb lining. Ongoing blood loss can contribute to Iron Deficiency Anaemia, which may cause tiredness, breathlessness or paleness.

Record bleeding days, flooding, clots, pain, medicines and cycle changes before an appointment. A clinician may offer medication to reduce bleeding, hormonal options, or treatment aimed at a finding such as fibroids or polyps. The right choice depends on your symptoms, examination, blood tests, scan findings and whether you want pregnancy. Do not take iron or hormonal treatment without advice about the product and dose. Rest, fluids and practical planning can help while you arrange care, but they do not address ongoing blood loss.

Arrange a medical review for new, worsening or disruptive heavy periods, bleeding between periods, bleeding after sex, or symptoms of anaemia. Seek urgent care if bleeding is soaking protection repeatedly, you feel faint or weak, have shortness of breath, severe pelvic pain, or could be pregnant. Heavy bleeding after menopause also needs prompt assessment. Evaluation may include a pregnancy test, blood tests, examination or imaging.

Ask what may be causing the bleeding, whether you need blood tests or imaging, which treatment fits your pregnancy plans, and how to recognise anaemia or worsening blood loss.