Heavy Periods: What Is Normal and What Is Not?

Periods are usually heavy on the first two days and then ease. But "heavy" is often hard to judge, because every woman only knows her own experience. A few practical markers help.

Signs your bleeding may be too heavy

●       Soaking a pad or tampon every hour for several hours in a row

●       Needing to change pads at night, or using two together

●       Passing clots larger than a one-rupee coin

●       Periods lasting longer than 7 days

●       Bleeding that stops you from your daily routine

●       Tiredness, breathlessness, dizziness, or hair fall, which can point to anaemia

Common causes

●       Fibroids and polyps

●       Adenomyosis

●       Hormonal imbalance, including PCOS and thyroid problems

●       Perimenopause

●       Copper IUD

●       Bleeding or clotting disorders, less common but important

●       Rarely, conditions of the uterine lining that need to be ruled out

Why it matters

Heavy periods are one of the most common reasons for iron deficiency anaemia in Indian women. Many women put up with it for years because they assume it is normal. It is treatable.

When to see a gynaecologist

If any of the signs above apply to you, don't wait. Tests usually include a blood count, thyroid check, and an ultrasound. Treatment ranges from medicines to minimally invasive procedures, depending on the cause.

FAQs

Is passing clots always a problem?Small clots are common. Large clots, or frequent clots with heavy flow, need a check.

Can I just take iron tablets?Iron helps with anaemia, but it doesn't fix the reason for the heavy bleeding.

You shouldn't have to plan your days around your period, or feel tired all the time and call it normal. Heavy periods have clear causes and good treatment options, and most women feel the difference quickly. Dr. Sonal Kotdawala will explain what's going on and the simplest way to fix it. Kotdawala Hospitals, Bhulabhai Park and Paldi, Ahmedabad. Book a consultation →