Periods are a regular part of life for many, (26% of the global population), but when does a "heavy flow" become more than just an inconvenience?
In this blog, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about heavy periods, or menorrhagia, and how to manage them—both with medical guidance and at home.
From spotting the signs of excessive blood loss to understanding treatment options, we’ve got you covered.
Table of Contents:
- Understanding Heavy Periods (Menorrhagia)
- Signs That You’re Losing Too Much Blood
- Causes of Heavy Periods
- Diagnosis and Treatment Options
- What You Can Do at Home to Manage Heavy Periods
- FAQs About Heavy Periods
Understanding Heavy Periods (Menorrhagia)
Heavy periods, medically known as menorrhagia, are not just about an extra box of tampons or a few more pads. It’s when your menstrual flow is abnormally heavy or prolonged.
Typically, during a period, blood loss ranges from 30 to 40 milliliters (about 2 to 3 tablespoons).
If you're losing 80 millilitres or more, you might be dealing with menorrhagia. But don’t worry, you’re not expected to measure this! Instead, pay attention to your flow and its impact on your life.
Also Read: Implantation Cramps vs. Period Cramps: Key Differences You Need to Know
Signs That You’re Losing Too Much Blood
If you're wondering whether your period is heavier than normal, look for these common signs of Menorrhagia:
- Soaking through tampons or pads quickly: If you’re consistently soaking through your tampon or pad within an hour, this could indicate abnormally heavy bleeding.
- Passing large clots: Passing clots larger than a quarter is a strong sign that your period may be excessively heavy.
- Experiencing fatigue, dizziness, or shortness of breath: These symptoms may point to anaemia, which can result from losing too much blood and should be addressed by a healthcare professional.
If you're nodding along to any of these, it's worth a deeper dive into what your body is trying to tell you.
When to Seek Emergency Help
Some symptoms aren't just inconvenient—they’re dangerous.
If you’re soaking through multiple pads within an hour, feeling faint, or experiencing a rapid heart rate, it’s time to get immediate help. Heavy bleeding can sometimes signal an underlying condition, so don’t hesitate to consult a doctor if you're concerned.
Causes of Heavy Periods
Medical Conditions Linked to Heavy Bleeding
Heavy periods don’t just happen out of nowhere. They can be caused by several medical conditions, including:
- Hormonal imbalances: Fluctuations in hormones like estrogen and progesterone can cause the uterine lining to thicken, leading to heavier periods.
- Uterine growths (e.g., fibroids): Noncancerous growths in the uterus, such as fibroids or polyps, can increase menstrual bleeding and cause other symptoms like cramping.
- Bleeding disorders: Conditions like Von Willebrand disease or platelet dysfunction can interfere with the body’s ability to clot blood properly, resulting in prolonged or heavy bleeding during menstruation.
Other Contributing Factors
Certain lifestyle factors and medications can also influence the heaviness of periods:
- Certain medications: Blood thinners or medications that affect hormone levels can exacerbate menstrual bleeding.
- Obesity and lifestyle factors: Excess weight can cause hormone imbalances, while factors such as stress, diet, and lack of exercise may indirectly impact menstrual flow, leading to heavier periods.
Also Read: White Discharge Before Period: Normal or a Sign of Health Issues?
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
If you suspect your period is abnormally heavy, a doctor will perform a series of tests and evaluations to determine the cause:
- Medical history and symptom review: Your doctor will ask about your menstrual cycle, duration of bleeding, and any symptoms like fatigue or large clots.
- Physical exam: A pelvic examination may be conducted to check for abnormalities in the uterus or ovaries.
- Blood tests: These help identify conditions such as anaemia, hormonal imbalances, or bleeding disorders.
- Ultrasound: An imaging test like an ultrasound provides a detailed view of the uterus and can reveal fibroids, polyps, or other growths.
- Endometrial biopsy: In some cases, a small sample of the uterine lining may be taken to rule out more serious conditions like cancer.
Treatment Options
The good news? There are plenty of ways to treat heavy periods!
Once the cause of heavy periods is identified, several treatment options are available depending on the severity and underlying condition:
Medications and hormone therapy: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can reduce blood flow, while birth control pills, hormone-releasing IUDs, or other hormone therapies help regulate the menstrual cycle and lighten periods.
Surgical options: For more severe cases, surgery may be recommended, such as:
- Endometrial ablation: A procedure that destroys the uterine lining to reduce or stop bleeding.
- Myomectomy: Removal of fibroids or other growths.
- Hysterectomy: In extreme cases where other treatments fail, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be necessary.
What You Can Do at Home to Manage Heavy Periods
While waiting for a medical diagnosis or alongside treatment, here are a few things you can do at home:
- Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise can help balance hormones and reduce stress, both of which may influence your menstrual flow. Maintaining a healthy weight and practising relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation can also help alleviate symptoms associated with heavy periods.
- Iron-rich diet and supplements: Heavy bleeding can deplete your iron levels, increasing the risk of anaemia. To combat this, incorporate iron-rich foods into your diet, such as spinach, lentils, beans, and lean meats. You may also consider taking iron supplements, but consult with your doctor before starting.
Try Qnix Period Underwear for Leak Protection and Comfort
Don't let heavy periods slow you down!
Qnix period underwear offers superior absorbency and comfort, giving you confidence even on your heaviest flow days. Say goodbye to embarrassing leaks and hello to confidence Designed for leak protection, Qnix underwear helps you stay active and worry-free.
Explore our range today and find the perfect fit for you! Try Qnix period underwear today!
Also Read: How to Wash Period Panty: Essential Tips for Long-Lasting Use
FAQs About Heavy Periods
1. What are the normal and abnormal blood loss levels during a period?
On average, a normal period results in about 30 to 40 millilitres of blood loss (roughly 2 to 3 tablespoons). If you're losing more than 80 millilitres (about 5 to 6 tablespoons), it is considered abnormal and may indicate a heavy period or menorrhagia.
2. How can I tell if my period is too heavy?
You might have a heavy period if you're soaking through tampons or pads within an hour for several consecutive hours, passing large blood clots (the size of a quarter or larger), or experiencing symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, or shortness of breath.
3. When should I seek medical help for heavy bleeding?
If your bleeding is so heavy that it disrupts your daily life, lasts longer than seven days, or you experience severe fatigue or dizziness, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. Seek emergency care if you soak through multiple pads or tampons in an hour or feel faint.
4. Can heavy periods be a sign of a serious condition?
Yes, heavy periods can be a symptom of underlying medical conditions such as uterine fibroids, hormonal imbalances, polyps, or bleeding disorders. In rare cases, it can also be a sign of more serious conditions like cancer, which is why proper diagnosis is important.
5. What are the treatment options for menorrhagia?
Treatment options vary depending on the cause but may include medications like birth control pills or hormone therapy, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or surgical procedures such as endometrial ablation, myomectomy, or in extreme cases, hysterectomy.
Heavy periods don’t have to take over your life. Understanding your symptoms, exploring treatment options, and making small changes can help you regain control. And when things get tough, there’s always Qnix period underwear for those extra heavy days.
