Understanding Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: When Is It More Than Just a
Heavy menstrual bleeding can be more than just an inconvenience—it may be a sign of an underlying health issue. From hormonal imbalances and uterine fibroids to bleeding disorders and endometriosis, there are many potential causes that shouldn’t be overlooked. If your period is affecting your daily life or feels unusually severe, it’s important to seek medical advice.
For many women, dealing with a few heavy days during their period feels normal. But when does a heavy flow cross the line into something that could impact your health and quality of life? Heavy menstrual bleeding—also known as menorrhagia—is more common than you might think, and it's important to know when to seek help.
What Is Considered Heavy Menstrual Bleeding?
If you’re soaking through pads or tampons every hour, needing double protection, waking up at night to change products, or experiencing periods that last longer than 7 days, these are signs that your bleeding may be heavier than normal. Excessive menstrual bleeding isn’t something you should have to "put up with"—it could be a sign of an underlying condition.
Common Causes of Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
Several health issues can lead to abnormal uterine bleeding, including:
- Hormonal Imbalance: Disruptions in estrogen and progesterone can cause the uterine lining to build up excessively.
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Infections affecting reproductive organs may result in irregular bleeding.
- Bleeding Disorders: Conditions like Von Willebrand disease can make clotting difficult.
- Ovary Dysfunction: Irregular ovulation can trigger hormonal shifts leading to heavy periods.
- Uterine Fibroids or Polyps: Noncancerous growths in the uterus often cause prolonged or heavy bleeding.
- Endometriosis: When uterine tissue grows outside the uterus, it can result in painful, heavy periods.
- Medications: Blood thinners or certain hormonal treatments may worsen bleeding.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It
Chronic heavy bleeding can lead to anemia, fatigue, and disruption of daily activities. More importantly, it could be signaling a condition that requires medical attention. You deserve to feel well and have manageable periods.
When to See a Doctor
If your period is interfering with your life, don’t hesitate to seek care. A gynecologist can perform evaluations to pinpoint the cause and offer treatment options—from medication to minimally invasive procedures.
