Learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatments for heavy periods. Explore medication, surgical options, and when to seek medical help.
Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) affects millions of women worldwide. It may signal underlying hormonal issues, fibroids, or simply be part of a woman’s normal cycle. However, when bleeding interferes with daily activities or leads to anemia, it’s important to address it. This guide explains the causes, symptoms, and evidence-based treatment options—both medical and surgical.
🔍 What Are Heavy Periods?
- Bleeding that lasts more than 7 days
- Soaking through 1+ pad/tampon every hour for several hours
- Needing double protection (tampon + pad)
- Passing large blood clots (larger than a quarter)
- Fatigue or signs of iron-deficiency anemia
🩺 Common Causes
- Hormonal imbalances (estrogen/progesterone)
- Uterine fibroids or polyps
- Adenomyosis or endometriosis
- Blood clotting disorders
- Intrauterine devices (non-hormonal IUDs)
- Thyroid disorders
💊 Treatment Options
- Tranexamic acid: Reduces blood loss by up to 50% during heavy flow days.
- NSAIDs: Ibuprofen or naproxen can reduce bleeding and cramps.
- Hormonal birth control: Pills, patches, and vaginal rings regulate cycles.
- Levonorgestrel IUD (LNG-IUS): Long-term relief by thinning uterine lining.
- Iron supplements: Treat and prevent anemia due to blood loss.
🛠️ Surgical & Procedural Options
- Endometrial ablation: Destroys uterine lining (not for women planning future pregnancy).
- Myomectomy: Removes fibroids, preserves uterus.
- Uterine artery embolization (UAE): Shrinks fibroids by cutting off blood supply.
- Hysterectomy: Complete removal of the uterus, last-resort option.
🏠 At-Home Management Tips
- Track your cycle with a calendar or app
- Use a menstrual cup to estimate blood loss more accurately
- Eat iron-rich foods (spinach, beans, red meat)
- Stay hydrated and rest during heavy days
👩⚕️ When to See a Doctor
- Bleeding interferes with work, school, or daily life
- Periods last more than 7 days consistently
- You feel dizzy, tired, or faint
- You’re passing large blood clots frequently
- OTC medications don’t help
🗣️ Real Women’s Stories
“My periods were so heavy I had to carry extra clothes to work. Tranexamic acid changed everything.”
“After years of trying different birth control pills, I finally got a Mirena IUD. The bleeding almost completely stopped after 3 months.”
✅ Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Symptoms | Long periods, heavy flow, clots, anemia |
| Common Causes | Fibroids, hormone imbalance, IUDs, bleeding disorders |
| Medical Treatments | Tranexamic acid, NSAIDs, hormonal birth control, iron |
| Procedures | Ablation, myomectomy, UAE, hysterectomy |
| See a Doctor If | Bleeding disrupts life, causes dizziness, or worsens over time |
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your gynecologist or healthcare provider for personalized treatment.