How Heavy Is Too Heavy? Understanding Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

No matter where it comes from, seeing a lot of blood can be alarming. But there’s a difference between a typical flow and having a heavy menstrual cycle. Sometimes, a heavy period indicates an underlying condition; in many cases, it’s just a major inconvenience. 

Dr. Asia Mohsin, an experienced gynecologist at Progressive Women’s Health OB/GYN in Friendswood, Texas, specializes in heavy menstrual bleeding. She’s experienced with complex cases and can perform emergency laparoscopic or hysteroscopic procedures when necessary. 

So, how can you tell if your period is too heavy? What does a heavy period mean for your health? In this article, we cover what you need to know about a heavy menstrual cycle. 

Do you have menorrhagia?

Menorrhagia is the scientific term for heavy menstrual bleeding. A typical period produces around 2-3 tablespoons of blood, but a heavy period can mean double. 

We don’t expect you to measure the volume of menstrual blood during your period, but there are several ways to tell if your period is too heavy. Let Dr. Mohsin know if you:

• Bleed for more than seven consecutive days
• Need to change your pad or tampon every hour for multiple, consecutive hours
• Pass large blood clots several times per day
• Need to double up on pads or wear a pad and tampon at the same time
• Have a period so heavy you can’t leave the house or perform daily tasks
• Feel the effects of blood loss, like fainting or feeling short of breath

Having a heavy period is common: Up to 54% of people who menstruate have one. If your periods seem heavy or unmanageable, tell your gynecologist. 

What does a heavy period mean? 

Nearly anyone can experience heavy periods, but they most commonly affect women approaching menopause. Dr. Mohsin evaluates you for common underlying conditions and causes such as:

• Hormone imbalances (e.g., thyroid problems, polycystic ovary syndrome)
• Uterine growths (e.g., polyps and fibroids)
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Pregnancy complications (e.g., miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy)
• Specific medications

Conditions unrelated to your reproductive system, like kidney and liver diseases, can cause menorrhagia. You’re at a higher risk if you have a hormone imbalance or a body mass index (BMI) over 30. 

Complications of a heavy period

A heavy period itself can cause issues. If you lose too much blood, you risk anemia, meaning you don’t have enough oxygenated red blood cells flowing through your vessels. Anemia can be life-threatening and cause:

• Weakness
• Fatigue
• Trouble breathing
• Chest pain
• Cold feet and hands
• Lightheadedness
• Irregular heartbeat
• Headaches

Anemia is a good example of why it's important to communicate with your gynecologist about heavy bleeding during periods.

Get in touch about your heavy bleeding

Dr. Mohsin uses diagnostic tests to determine the most likely cause of your heavy menstrual periods. Based on that, she may provide treatment with medications, injections, or minimally invasive surgery. 

Call Progressive Women’s Health OB/GYN or request an appointment online if you experience heavy or irregular bleeding during periods.