Heavy Periods

What is a heavy period?

Around 20% of women experience heavy periods every year. If you have heavy periods, you may experience:

• Periods that last longer than seven days
• Needing to use tampons and pads at the same time
• Having to change your pad or tampon every hour for several consecutive hours
• Passing blood clots larger than a quarter

You may also find that you’re fatigued or your cramps are too severe for you to go to work or school or develop signs of anemia such as tiredness and shortness of breath.

What causes heavy periods?

Many factors and health conditions can cause heavy periods. Your abnormal bleeding may be caused by:

• Hormonal imbalances that cause problems with ovulation and uterine lining
• Thyroid problems
• Uterine fibroids
• Uterine polyps
• Endometriosis
• Obesity
• Bleeding disorders

Your heavy periods could also be due to medications such as blood thinners or some birth control options.

If you have heavy periods, make an appointment with the doctors at Women’s Health Services to get a diagnosis and customized treatment.

How is the cause of my heavy periods diagnosed?

The doctors at Women’s Health Services offer comprehensive exams and testing to identify the cause of your heavy periods. During your physical, they ask about your menstrual cycle, overall health, and lifestyle. They also order blood tests to look for abnormal hormone levels that could indicate a health problem that causes heavy bleeding.

In some cases, your doctor may recommend hysteroscopy using Endosee® equipment to examine your uterus. A hysteroscope is a thin scope with a light on its tip that your doctor inserts into your uterus. When the hysteroscope is in place, your doctor can look through it to examine the inside of your uterus for polyps and other abnormalities. During your hysteroscopy, your doctor may take a biopsy if they find unusual tissue.

How are heavy periods treated?

Treatment for heavy periods depends on the condition causing them. For example, your doctor may talk to you about medical management as well as surgical procedures. Some conditions improve with hormone treatments or a change in birth control. However, if you have large fibroids or another condition, your doctor may suggest a surgical procedure to remove the abnormal tissue causing your heavy bleeding.

If you’re concerned about heavy periods, call Women’s Health Services, or schedule an appointment online today for customized treatment to restore your health.