Why is my period not stopping?

A longer bleed can happen when ovulation is irregular, because hormone changes may make the womb lining build up and shed unpredictably. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome can cause irregular ovulation, while the transition towards Menopause can make bleeding patterns change. Polyps, fibroids, infection, thyroid problems, some medicines and bleeding disorders are other possibilities. Bleeding during pregnancy is not a period and needs medical advice. If periods stop for a long time and later bleeding occurs, mention this clearly to a clinician. The cause cannot be identified safely from bleeding alone.

Write down when the bleeding began, how often you change pads or tampons, whether you pass clots, and any pain, dizziness or breathlessness. Take a pregnancy test if pregnancy is possible. Arrange a clinical assessment if bleeding continues, keeps returning or is affecting daily life. A clinician may ask about contraception, medicines, pregnancy history and medical conditions, and may arrange blood tests or an examination. Do not start hormonal treatment or iron supplements without advice.

Seek urgent help if bleeding is heavy and you feel faint, weak, short of breath or have chest discomfort; if you have severe pelvic pain; or if pregnancy is possible and you are bleeding. Urgent assessment is also needed for sudden worsening, collapse, or bleeding after menopause. Use the local emergency service for severe symptoms. Persistent bleeding can lead to anaemia, so do not wait for an appointment if you are becoming unwell.

Could my contraception or another medicine be contributing? Do I need a pregnancy test or blood count? What examinations might identify the cause? How can the bleeding be controlled safely? Which changes should prompt urgent help?