Many women assume that heavy periods are simply part of life. Perhaps they've always had them, or maybe their mother and sisters did too. Because heavy menstrual bleeding is so common, it's often accepted as something that just has to be endured.
But while heavy periods are common, they are not necessarily normal, and they can significantly affect your health, wellbeing and quality of life.
What Counts as a Heavy Period?
Heavy menstrual bleeding is not just about the number of pads or tampons you use. It is about how your period affects your daily life.
Signs your bleeding may be heavier than normal include:
Soaking through pads or tampons every one to two hours
Needing to use both a tampon and a pad for protection
Passing large blood clots
Bleeding for longer than seven days
Waking overnight to change menstrual products
Avoiding work, exercise or social activities because of your period
Feeling exhausted during or after your period
Many women adapt their lives around heavy bleeding and don't realise there may be effective treatments available.
Heavy Periods Can Lead to Iron Deficiency
One of the most common consequences of heavy periods is iron deficiency.
Low iron levels can cause:
Fatigue
Poor concentration and brain fog
Reduced exercise tolerance
Headaches
Dizziness
Shortness of breath
Many women tell me they didn't realise how much their heavy periods were affecting them until their iron levels were corrected and they started feeling like themselves again.
What Causes Heavy Periods?
There are many possible causes, including:
Fibroids
Polyps
Adenomyosis
Endometriosis
Hormonal changes
Perimenopause
Bleeding disorders
Certain medications
Thyroid conditions
Sometimes investigations are needed to identify the underlying cause and ensure there is nothing more serious contributing to the bleeding.
When Should You See a Gynaecologist?
I would encourage you to seek advice if:
Your periods are affecting your quality of life
You feel tired or suspect low iron levels
Your bleeding has become heavier than usual
You experience bleeding between periods
You bleed after intercourse
Your periods are associated with significant pain
You are approaching menopause and your bleeding pattern has changed
You feel anxious or concerned about your symptoms
You do not need to wait until your symptoms become severe before seeking help.
The Good News: Treatment Options Are Available
The best treatment depends on your symptoms, future pregnancy plans, age and any underlying cause.
Options may include:
Hormonal treatments
The Mirena® IUD
Non-hormonal medications
Investigation and treatment of fibroids or polyps
Minimally invasive procedures
Surgery in selected cases
The goal is not simply to reduce bleeding, but to improve your overall quality of life.
You Don't Have to Just Put Up With It
If you are planning your life around your periods, worrying about flooding, or constantly feeling tired and depleted, it's worth getting checked.
Heavy periods may be common, but they should never be dismissed.
At Empowered Health Solutions, I work with women to identify the cause of heavy bleeding and develop personalised treatment plans to help them feel their best again.
If heavy periods are affecting your life, I'd be happy to help. Book a consultation to discuss your symptoms and explore your treatment options.