Heavy Periods: Causes, Symptoms, and Modern Treatment Options
Heavy periods are common, but they are not normal. Yet, many women silently live with excessive menstrual bleeding, believing it is simply part of womanhood. In reality, heavy menstrual bleeding is a medical condition with clear causes and effective treatments.
Understanding what counts as heavy bleeding, why it occurs, and how it can be treated helps you take control of your reproductive health.
What Are Heavy Periods?
A period is considered heavy when the amount or duration of bleeding disrupts daily life.
You may be experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding if you notice any of the following:
Blood loss of more than 80 ml per cycle
Passing large blood clots (normal menstrual blood usually does not clot)
Soaking through pads or tampons every 1–2 hours
Leakage that stains clothes or bed sheets
Periods lasting longer than 6 days
Feeling tired, dizzy, or breathless, often due to anemia
In short, if your period controls your routine, it is time to seek medical advice.
Why Do Heavy Periods Occur?
Heavy periods can happen for several reasons. Often, more than one factor is involved.
1. Hormonal Imbalance
When ovulation is delayed or absent, the uterine lining becomes too thick. As a result, bleeding becomes heavier.
Common hormonal causes include:
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Thyroid disorders
High prolactin levels, often linked to stress
Hormonal changes during adolescence or perimenopause
2. Nutritional Deficiencies
Sometimes, simple deficiencies can worsen menstrual bleeding.
These include:
Vitamin D deficiency, which affects calcium absorption and normal clotting
Iron deficiency, which both results from and further increases heavy bleeding
3. Uterine Causes
Structural problems within the uterus are a frequent reason for heavy periods.
Examples include:
Fibroids, which increase the bleeding surface and reduce uterine contraction
Adenomyosis, where the uterine muscle becomes swollen and painful
Endometrial polyps
Congenital uterine anomalies, such as a double uterus
4. Medical Devices and Infections
Certain external factors may also increase menstrual flow.
These include:
Copper IUD (Copper-T), which can make periods heavier
Pelvic or uterine infections that increase blood supply to the uterus
5. Bleeding Disorders and Cancer
Although less common, serious causes must always be ruled out.
These include:
Underlying bleeding disorders
Use of blood-thinning medications
Endometrial or cervical cancer, especially in women over 40 or with postmenopausal bleeding
When Should You See a Gynaecologist?
You should consult a gynaecologist if:
Heavy bleeding interferes with work or daily activities
Periods are becoming progressively heavier or longer
Bleeding occurs between periods or after intercourse
You feel constantly weak, tired, or fatigued
What Tests May Be Needed?
Based on your symptoms, your doctor may advise:
A clinical examination
Pelvic ultrasound
Blood tests (hemoglobin, hormones, thyroid levels)
Endometrial evaluation, when required
Treatment Options for Heavy Periods
Treatment depends on the cause, severity, and future fertility plans.
Medical Treatment
In many cases, medicines are effective and safe.
Common options include:
Progesterone therapy for hormonal imbalance
Haemostatic medicines to reduce bleeding
Tranexamic acid and pain-relief medications
Hormonal pills
Progesterone-releasing intrauterine device (LNG-IUD)
Treatment of infections or nutritional deficiencies
Iron and vitamin supplements to correct anemia
Surgical Treatment
If medicines fail or structural problems are present, surgery may be advised.
Possible procedures include:
Dilatation and Curettage (D&C)
Hysteroscopic polypectomy
Myomectomy for fibroid removal
Ovarian cyst surgery
Hysterectomy, after careful discussion of benefits and risks
What’s New in the Treatment of Heavy Periods?
Thanks to advances in gynaecology, many women can now avoid major surgery.
Modern options include:
HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) for fibroids and adenomyosis
Uterine artery embolisation, which shrinks fibroids
Long-term medications such as GnRH antagonists to control symptoms
Can Heavy Periods Be Prevented?
While not all causes are preventable, you can lower your risk by:
Maintaining a healthy weight
Eating an iron-rich, balanced diet
Ensuring adequate Vitamin D and calcium intake
Exercising regularly and managing stress
Attending routine gynaecological check-ups
Treating irregular cycles early
While not all causes are preventable, you can lower your risk by:
Maintaining a healthy weight
Eating an iron-rich, balanced diet
Ensuring adequate Vitamin D and calcium intake
Exercising regularly and managing stress
Attending routine gynaecological check-ups
Treating irregular cycles early
Final Thoughts
Heavy periods are treatable and manageable. Ignoring excessive bleeding can lead to severe anaemia and may delay the diagnosis of serious conditions.
If your periods feel overwhelming, remember—you do not have to suffer in silence. Help is available.
Consult a gynaecologist and take the first step toward better menstrual health.
This Amenorrhoea article was first published on the Mumbai Gynaec website. Moreover, it has been reproduced on this page with permission from the original author and owner,
Dr. Swati Allahbadia, so that readers can access updated and useful medical information.