Heavy Periods

Heavy periods (menorrhagia) are menstrual cycles where bleeding is heavier than typical. Signs of a heavy period may include:

• Bleeding through your clothes or into bedding at night
• Using double sanitary products (e.g. tampons or pads)
• Needing to change sanitary products every 2hrs or more often
• Periods that prevent you from doing your normal activities.

Heavy periods can be caused by a variety of factors including:

• Hormonal imbalances
• Fibroids or polyps in the uterus
• Ovulation problems
• Bleeding disorders (such as Willebrand disease)
• Certain medications (including blood thinners)
• Thyroid disorders
• Endometriosis
• Pregnancy-related issues

If you suffer from frequently heavy periods, then you should discuss this with a healthcare professional.

There are many things you can do at home to naturally ease symptoms of heavy periods such as:

• Use a heating pad for any cramping
• Stay hydrated
• Include iron-rich foods into diet (such as spinach, beans, red meat)
• Rest when needed
• Track your cycle to identify any patterns.

Heavy periods on their own are not dangerous, but chronic heavy bleeding can lead to anaemia which causes tiredness, shortness of breath, dizziness, and weakness.

Heavy periods can occasionally be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. Those who suffer from regular heavy periods may benefit from a discussion with a healthcare professional to discuss possible causes and solutions.