Heavy periods are painful and stressful. If the period lasts longer than expected, needs plenty of pad changes, or feels extremely tired, then the time may be appropriate to address this issue. Today, we are going to consider the reasons heavy periods happen and how you could effectively handle heavy periods.
What are heavy periods?
Heavy periods, or menorrhagia, are when the menstrual bleeding is longer than usual or heavier than usual. Symptoms of heavy periods are:
- Replacing tampons or pads every 1-2 hours
- Excessive bleeding for over 7 days
- Passage of large clots
- Weak or fatigued due to loss of blood.
If you are experiencing them, you must recognize the reason and get the appropriate treatment.
What causes heavy periods?
Several reasons can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding. Some of the most prevalent reasons are:
Hormonal Imbalances
Estrogen and progesterone regulate your menstrual cycle. If they are out of balance, you will have heavy bleeding.
Uterine Fibroids
These non-cancerous growths in the uterus will lead to menorrhagia and dysmenorrhea.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS affects hormone levels and can result in heavy, irregular menstruation.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis results in tissue such as uterine lining to grow outside the uterus and leads to heavy and painful menstruation.
Adenomyosis
If the lining of the uterus grows into the muscle, periods may become heavier and more painful.
Thyroid Problems
A thyroid disorder will alter menstrual periods and result in excessive bleeding.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
Reproductive tract infection can lead to heavy and painful menstruation.
Issues with Heavy Periods
Not paying attention to heavy periods may result in some health problems, including:
- Anemia, dizziness, and weakness are caused by low red blood cells.
- Iron deficiency causes excessive bleeding, lowering iron levels and leaving you fatigued.
- Serious cramps are strong pain and usually accompanied by heavy bleeding.
- If your heavy bleeding is disrupting your life, it’s time to seek treatment.
Home Remedies to Treat Heavy Periods
If you tend towards natural cures, the following lifestyle modifications can be helpful:
- Take Iron-Rich Foods: Include spinach, beans, and red meat to keep iron levels stable.
- Use herbal medicines: Cinnamon and ginger are able to reduce cramping and bleeding.
- Exercise regularly: Mild exercises like walking and yoga can regulate hormones.
- Apply Heat Therapy: Placing a heating pad on your stomach will soothe muscles and ease pain.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water keeps blood flowing and fights off fatigue.
- Reduce Stress: You can control your cycle with meditation, deep breathing, and relaxation exercises.
When should you see a doctor?
Consult a doctor immediately if you develop:
- Prolonged bleeding for over 7 days
- Requiring replacement of tampons or pads every 1-2 hours
- Passing big blood clots often
- Severe cramping or pelvic pain
- Symptoms of anemia are dizziness, weakness, or shortness of breath.
Conclusion
Heavy periods affect your well-being as well as everyday life, but control is achievable. Medical treatment, lifestyle modification, and over-the-counter medication can reduce heavy bleeding and distress. If there is difficulty from heavy periods, consult a specialist in fertility, like from Kanaa Fertility for the best treatment.