What should you know about unusually heavy period?

Heavy menstrual bleeding may involve soaking through products quickly, passing large clots, bleeding for longer than expected, or needing to change protection overnight. Causes can include uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, endometrial polyps, endometrial hyperplasia, perimenopause, polycystic ovary syndrome, thyroid problems, pregnancy-related conditions, or medicines. Ongoing blood loss can contribute to [Iron Deficiency Anaemia].

Track the first and last day of bleeding, how often you change pads or tampons, clots, pain, bleeding between periods, and any chance of pregnancy. Bring a list of medicines, including anticoagulants and hormonal contraception. A clinician may check your blood count, examine you, and arrange imaging or other tests based on your symptoms and stage of life. Do not take iron unless a clinician recommends it.

Book an appointment when heavy bleeding repeats, disrupts daily activities, causes tiredness or breathlessness, or occurs after sex or between periods. Seek urgent care if bleeding is very heavy and you feel faint, weak, short of breath, have severe pain, or may be pregnant. [Heavy Periods] provides further symptom context; possible causes include [Uterine Fibroids] and [Adenomyosis].

Ask which causes fit your pattern, whether you need a pregnancy test or blood tests, and whether an ultrasound is appropriate. Discuss treatment choices, fertility plans, contraception, pain control, and what amount of bleeding should trigger urgent help.