Heavy periods
Overview
Another name for this is menorrhagia. Typically women may menstruate (bleed) for 2-5 days, and lose around 30-40ml of blood.
Abnormally heavy bleeding is when:
- your periods last longer than 7 days
- the volume is more than 80ml
- there is flooding or clotting
- you are anaemic
Possible causes
There are many causes, including fibroids, uterine polyps, hyperplasia or cancer of the uterus, polycystic ovarian syndrome, thyroid disease, genital tract infection, endometriosis and bleeding disorders.
What to do
If you have troublesome heavy bleeding, you should see your GP. First steps may include an ultrasound of the uterus, an examination, and treatment using non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, oral hormones and anti-clotting agents.
A specialist in gynaecology has a number of options available to them to aid in treatment. These include a mirena, ablation of the uterine lining, and hysterectomy.
How we can help
If you are experiencing heavy periods and would like to talk to us about how we can help, please feel free to contact us. You can also request an appointment online.