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Heavy periods

Also called Heavy menstrual bleeding or Menorrhagia

Heavy periods are periods with a lot of bleeding, for example needing to change pads or tampons every 1 to 2 hours, passing large clots, or bleeding through clothes. They are common and often have no clear cause, but can be linked to fibroids, endometriosis, adenomyosis, polyps, a coil, or hormone changes.

Last updated Nov 9, 2026

What it is

Heavy periods can lead to iron deficiency anaemia, making you tired and breathless.

Treatments include a hormonal coil, the pill, tablets taken during periods to reduce bleeding, and procedures or surgery if needed.

Common signs

  • Changing pads or tampons every 1 to 2 hours
  • Passing clots larger than 2.5cm
  • Bleeding through to clothes or bedding
  • Periods lasting more than 7 days
  • Tiredness or breathlessness

How it is usually diagnosed

  • Questions about your periods
  • Blood test for anaemia
  • Pelvic examination
  • Ultrasound scan, sometimes

Records worth keeping

Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:

  • A period diary
  • Blood count and ferritin results
  • Ultrasound reports
  • Gynaecology letters

Questions to ask your doctor

  • Could something be causing my heavy periods?
  • Which treatment would suit me?
  • Do I need iron tablets?

When to get help right away

Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:

  • Very heavy bleeding with dizziness, fainting or a racing heart: call 112

This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.

Sources

Related conditions

FibroidsNon-cancerous growths in or around the womb. Many cause no symptoms, but some cause heavy periods, pain or pressure.Iron deficiency anaemiaToo little iron means the body cannot make enough healthy red blood cells. Finding the reason for the low iron matters as much as treating it.EndometriosisA long-term condition in which tissue similar to the womb lining grows elsewhere, often causing painful periods and pelvic pain.AdenomyosisTissue like the womb lining grows into the muscle wall of the womb, often causing heavy, painful periods.