If you have this type of bleeding, you should see a doctor. Untreated heavy or prolonged bleeding can stop you from living your life to the fullest. It also can cause anemia. Anemia is a common blood problem that can leave you feeling tired or weak.
If you have a bleeding problem, it could lead to other health problems. In addition, certain drugs, such as aspirin, can cause increased bleeding.
Doctors have not been able to find the cause in half of all women who have this problem. If you have bleeding such as this, and your gynecologist has not found any problems during your routine visit, you should be tested for a bleeding disorder.
Usually, menstrual bleeding lasts about 4 to 5 days and the amount of blood lost is small 2 to 3 tablespoons. However, women who have menorrhagia usually bleed for more than 7 days and lose twice as much blood. If you have bleeding that lasts longer than 7 days per period, or is so heavy that you have to change your pad or tampon nearly every hour, you need to talk with your doctor. To find out if you have menorrhagia, your doctor will ask you about your medical history and menstrual cycles.
Your doctor may also ask if any of your family members have had heavy menstrual bleeding. He or she may also have you complete this questionnaire Cdc-pdf [PDF — KB] to help determine if you need to be tested for a possible bleeding disorder. A couple heavy flow days at the beginning of your period is normal. But if you change your sheets in the morning because you bleed through your tampon or pad at night, avoid wearing light-colored clothing during your cycle or cram your purse full of tampons, you could have chronic heavy periods.
You might be surprised to learn that about one in five women experience menorrhagia, the medical term for heavy periods. If you have severe cramping during your periods, taking an NSAID such as ibuprofen or naproxen may help. If you don't know when your period will start next, take your first dose as soon as bleeding or cramping starts. Heavy periods can make you feel weak and run-down and can lead to anemia.
Your doctor may suggest that you take an iron supplement if your iron levels are low. You may be able to prevent anemia if you increase the amount of iron in your diet. Foods rich in iron include red meat, shellfish, eggs, and beans. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.
Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn How this information was developed. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise. All rights reserved. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. British Columbia Specific Information Menstrual period bleeding may be different from one woman to another.
Top of the page. Overview Is this topic for you? What are heavy menstrual periods? You may: Pass large blood clots and soak through your usual pads or tampons.
Bleed for more than 7 days. A normal period usually lasts 4 to 6 days. What causes heavy periods? These include: A change in hormones. Normally one of your ovaries releases an egg during your menstrual cycle. This is called ovulation. If you don't ovulate, your hormone levels can get out of balance. Share on Pinterest Hormonal disturbances just before the menopause can lead to heavy bleeding.
Share on Pinterest Birth control pills can help to regulate hormones. Share on Pinterest If bleeding makes daily activities difficult, it is a good idea to see a doctor. Latest news Scientists identify new cause of vascular injury in type 2 diabetes.
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