Having a heavy period can be challenging to deal with, and it's common to wonder what's normal and what's not. Many women experience this, but knowing when it might be a sign of something more serious is important. Let's break down the facts about menstrual flow and empower you to take control of your health.
Difference Between Normal vs. Abnormal Flow
Your period is a natural process where your uterus sheds its lining. You'll bleed for a few days, usually around 3 to 7, and the amount of blood will vary throughout the day and from one period to the next. It's a regular rhythm your body follows, and while it might not be the most fun experience, it shouldn't disrupt your life significantly.
But sometimes, things go off track. An abnormal period might be unusually heavy, last longer than usual, come with severe pain, or occur at unexpected times. These changes can be a sign that something's up and it's time to pay closer attention to your health.
What Constitutes Normal Period Flow?
Normal period flow is like your monthly visitor—here, one moment, gone the next. But what makes it normal? Let's break it down into simple terms:
- Duration: It typically lasts 3 to 7 days, like a short visit each month.
- Volume: You lose a moderate amount of blood, not too much, not too little (on average 40-60ml, roughly 2-3 tablespoons). This usually translates to changing pads or tampons every 3-4 hours.
- Consistency: It stays fairly steady throughout, with a slightly heavier flow at the start and tapering off toward the end.
- Colour and Texture: The blood can be bright red or dark brown, with small clots sometimes. However, clots larger than a grape could indicate heavy bleeding.
- Minimal Discomfort: Some cramps or bloating are normal, but they shouldn't be so severe that they stop you from doing your daily activities.
Signs of Abnormal Period Flow
When your period acts out of the ordinary, it's essential to pay attention. Here are five signs that your period flow might be abnormal:
- Lots of Bleeding: If you're soaking a pad or tampon every hour for several consecutive hours or passing clots larger than a grape, your flow may be too heavy.
- Longer Than Usual: If your period lasts more than seven days, it's staying around longer than it should.
- Weird Timing: If your period comes less than 21 days apart, more than 35 days apart, or is completely unpredictable, it could signal an underlying issue.
- Hurts Like Crazy: Some pain is normal, but if your period pain is so severe it stops you from going to school, work, or social activities, it’s worth investigating.
- Feeling Super Tired: If your period makes you feel weak, dizzy, or constantly fatigued, it could be a sign of excessive blood loss and possible iron deficiency.
Causes of Heavy Period Flow
Having a really heavy period can be frustrating, but knowing the potential causes can help you find ways to feel better. Here are five common reasons why periods might be heavier than usual:
- Hormonal Imbalance: Changes in hormones like oestrogen and progesterone can disrupt your cycle, leading to heavier bleeding.
- Uterine Fibroids: These non-cancerous growths in the uterus can increase menstrual bleeding by affecting the uterine lining.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS can cause irregular ovulation, leading to skipped periods followed by heavier bleeding due to hormone imbalances.
- Endometriosis: When the tissue that normally lines the uterus grows outside of it, it can cause intense pain, heavy bleeding, and other menstrual problems.
- Adenomyosis: This occurs when the uterine lining grows into the muscle wall of the uterus, leading to painful and heavy periods.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Identifying the cause of heavy periods is key to managing them effectively. Here’s how doctors diagnose and treat the condition:
Diagnosis
- Physical Exam: A doctor may check for any physical abnormalities in the uterus.
- Lab Tests: Blood tests can check for anaemia (low iron levels) and hormone imbalances.
- Imaging: Ultrasounds or MRIs help detect fibroids, endometriosis, or other structural issues in the uterus.
- Biopsy: In some cases, a small tissue sample from the uterine lining is taken to check for abnormalities, including precancerous or cancerous changes.
Treatment
- Medicine: Treatment depends on the cause but may include:
- Hormonal birth control (pills, IUDs, patches) to regulate bleeding.
- Non-hormonal medication (tranexamic acid, NSAIDs) to reduce bleeding. - Surgery: If necessary, options like:
- Endometrial ablation (removal of uterine lining) for long-term relief.
- Myomectomy (removal of fibroids) to reduce heavy bleeding. - Therapy: This might include pelvic physiotherapy for pain management or mental health support if periods cause distress.
- Healthy Habits: While diet, exercise, and stress management can support menstrual health, they are not a substitute for medical treatment if a serious condition is present.
- Alternative Therapies: Some people find relief from acupuncture, herbal medicine, or massage, though evidence varies, and they should be used alongside—not instead of—medical treatments.
Final Thoughts
Knowing what's normal and when to seek help for heavy periods is vital for your well-being. Tracking your menstrual flow using an app or journal can help you spot patterns and recognise when something is off. If you notice significant changes, don’t hesitate to consult a doctor. Taking charge of your menstrual health empowers you to stay healthy, informed, and confident.
