Heavy menstrual bleeding affects many women at some point, and it's one of the most common reasons for low iron. If your periods are getting in the way of work, sleep, exercise or social life, it's worth a conversation with your GP.
Signs your periods may be heavy
- Needing to change a pad or tampon every one to two hours
- Needing to use a pad and a tampon together, or getting up at night to change
- Flooding through to your clothes or bedding
- Passing clots larger than a 50 cent coin
- Bleeding for more than seven days
- Feeling tired, breathless or dizzy, which can be signs of low iron
Common causes
Often no single cause is found, and heavy bleeding is related to normal hormonal changes, especially in the teenage years and in perimenopause. Other causes include fibroids, polyps, adenomyosis, endometriosis, thyroid problems, bleeding disorders and some medicines. Rarely, heavy or irregular bleeding can be a sign of something more serious, which is why it should be checked.
What your GP may check
- A blood count and iron studies, to look for anaemia or low iron
- Thyroid function and other blood tests if needed
- A pelvic ultrasound
- Your cervical screening, if it's due
Treatment options
Treatment depends on the cause, how heavy your bleeding is, and whether you want contraception or are planning a pregnancy. Options include non-hormonal medicines taken during your period, hormonal treatments including a hormonal IUD, treating low iron with diet, tablets or an iron infusion, and referral to a gynaecologist when needed.
Want to talk it through? Dr Syed sees patients at Medicross Brygon Medical Centre, Upper Coomera, and Runaway Bay Medical & Dental.
Book online Women's health with Dr Syed →Common questions
How do I know if my periods are too heavy?
Changing a pad or tampon every one to two hours, flooding, clots larger than a 50 cent coin, or bleeding for more than seven days are common signs. If your periods affect your daily life, see your GP.
Can heavy periods cause low iron?
Yes. Heavy periods are one of the most common causes of iron deficiency in women. A simple blood test can check your iron levels.
Can a GP treat heavy periods?
Yes. GPs can investigate the cause, offer several treatment options including a hormonal IUD, treat low iron, and refer you to a gynaecologist if needed.
Further reading: Jean Hailes for Women's Health · healthdirect Australia
This article is general information only and is not a substitute for advice about your own health. In an emergency, call 000.
More health articles: Perimenopause symptoms · Choosing contraception · Iron deficiency in women · Cervical screening · All articles