How to stop a heavy period: what to know

Heavy periods may involve bleeding that disrupts daily life, lasts longer than expected or causes clots, fatigue or breathlessness. Causes include uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, endometrial polyps, endometrial hyperplasia and hormone changes around perimenopause. Polycystic ovary syndrome can also disturb ovulation and alter bleeding patterns. Ongoing blood loss can contribute to Iron Deficiency Anaemia. Heavy periods themselves do not identify a single cause.

Track how often you change pads or tampons, whether bleeding leaks through protection, the presence of clots, pain and any dizziness. Rest, drink fluids and avoid taking someone else’s medicine. A clinician may discuss medicines that reduce bleeding or pain, check a blood count and iron status, and investigate the uterus when needed. Treatment is selected around pregnancy plans, contraception, other medicines and the suspected cause.

Seek urgent help if bleeding is rapid or difficult to control, or if you feel faint, unusually weak, short of breath, confused or have severe pain. Get prompt advice if heavy bleeding is new, repeatedly disrupts life, happens during pregnancy or follows menopause. Do not delay assessment because the bleeding is familiar.

Ask what may be causing the bleeding, whether you need blood tests or imaging, which treatments fit your pregnancy plans, how to manage pain, and how to prevent or treat iron deficiency.