How to reduce heavy period bleeding

Heavy bleeding may mean needing to change protection very frequently, passing large clots, bleeding for longer than expected or finding that periods disrupt work, sleep or daily life. Causes include hormone changes, fibroids, adenomyosis, polyps, bleeding disorders, some medicines and pregnancy-related problems. Tiredness, breathlessness or dizziness can signal iron-deficiency anaemia. The right treatment depends on your age, pregnancy plans, contraception, other symptoms and medical history.

Track bleeding, clots, pain, cycle timing and any medicines so a clinician can see the pattern. Do not take aspirin for menstrual bleeding unless a clinician has prescribed it for another reason. A doctor may discuss anti-inflammatory medicines or tranexamic acid, hormonal contraception, an intrauterine system or treatment for an identified cause. Blood tests may check for anaemia and pregnancy; further examination or imaging may be recommended. Ask before taking iron, because the dose and need depend on test results. Nutrition counselling can support iron-containing meals but does not replace assessment.

Seek urgent help if bleeding is soaking through protection repeatedly, you feel faint, weak or short of breath, or pregnancy is possible and bleeding is heavy or painful. Arrange a medical review for a new pattern, bleeding between periods, bleeding after sex, worsening pelvic pain or symptoms of anaemia. Do not assume heavy bleeding is normal simply because it has happened before.

What could be causing my bleeding? Do I need pregnancy, blood or imaging tests? Which treatment fits my contraception and pregnancy plans? Should I check iron? What amount of bleeding should prompt urgent care?