Understanding Heavy Flow: How Much is Too Much

Do you feel like those 5 days of painful periods drain the life out of you? Does it irk you to change your pad every couple of hours and by the end of it you’re just happy to be done with your period? We feel you! We TOTALLY do!

However, does it ever get so bad that you start to worry if everything’s alright with your body? Changing a pad every two hours isn’t normal. Passing blood clots larger than the size of a 1-rupee coin isn’t normal. If the only thing you can do on your heavy days is stay curled up in your bed, then it isn’t normal. It could be heavy menstrual bleeding or menorrhagia.

What is heavy menstrual bleeding?

Heavy menstrual bleeding, also called menorrhagia, refers to abnormally heavy or prolonged bleeding during periods. The “Heavy” means that your periods last longer than 7 days or that you lose more blood than what is typical during menstruation.

How common are heavy periods?

While heavy menstrual bleeding is certainly not normal, it’s more common than you might think. According to studies, it affects approximately 1 in 4 women! It can occur at any age, but it is more common in women approaching menopause and those with certain medical conditions or hormonal imbalances.

What are the signs and symptoms of heavy menstrual flow/bleeding?

Many women complain about experiencing Menorrhagia, but how does one measure how much is too much? What is heavy flow? Well, there are certain menorrhagia symptoms to look out for to determine this:

• Periods lasting more than 7 days.
• Changing tampons or pads every hour or two.
• Passing large blood clots.
• Frequent nighttime awakenings to change sanitary products.
• Anaemia due to excessive blood loss, leading to fatigue and weakness.
• Difficulty in performing daily activities due to heavy bleeding.

How long does heavy menstrual bleeding last?

The duration of heavy menstrual bleeding can vary from woman to woman. Generally, periods last about four to seven days. In the case of heavy periods, it may extend beyond seven days, and the bleeding may be consistently heavy throughout the duration.

What are the causes of heavy menstrual bleeding?

While heavy menstrual bleeding is so common, it’s causes range more than just your periods being quirky every now and then. Some of the most common causes of heavy flow are:

• Hormonal imbalances
• Uterine fibroids (non-cancerous growths in or around the uterus)
• Polyps (small, harmless growths on the uterine lining)
• Adenomyosis (uterine lining grows into the muscular wall)
• Endometrial hyperplasia (excessive uterine lining growth)
• Blood clotting disorders
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Certain medications
• Miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy
• Cancer

There are actually many more potential causes apart from the ones mentioned here. So, if you have any concerns regarding your heavy periods, it’s advisable to consult a medical expert and get checked.

Related Article: Tips On Maintaining Menstrual Hygiene During Heavy Flow Periods

How is heavy menstrual bleeding diagnosed?

If you suspect you have heavy menstrual bleeding, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider. The diagnosis usually involves a thorough medical history review, including menstrual patterns and symptoms. A physical examination may also be conducted to check for any abnormalities in the reproductive organs.

What tests will be done to diagnose heavy menstrual bleeding?

To diagnose the cause of heavy menstrual bleeding, your healthcare provider may recommend additional tests, such as:

• Blood tests: To check for anemia or hormonal imbalances.
• Pelvic ultrasound: To examine the reproductive organs for any structural abnormalities or growths like fibroids.
• Endometrial biopsy: To collect a small sample of the uterine lining for analysis to rule out potential issues like endometrial hyperplasia or cancer.

How is heavy period bleeding managed?

Managing heavy menstrual bleeding can be challenging, but there are some home remedies that may help alleviate symptoms and improve overall menstrual health. Here are a few:

• Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce uterine inflammation and ease heavy bleeding during periods and menstrual cramps. You can have a ginger tea, add it as a spice to your meal, drink ginger-infused water, there’s so much ways you can add ginger to your diet.
• Cinnamon: Cinnamon is believed to have a regulatory effect on menstrual cycles and can help reduce excessive period bleeding. Mix a teaspoon of cinnamon powder in warm water and drink it once or twice daily during your period.
• Fenugreek seeds: Fenugreek seeds can help regulate hormones and may reduce excessive bleeding. To add them in your diet, soak a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in water overnight and drink the water in the morning on an empty stomach.
• Turmeric: Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and anti-bleeding properties. Just drink haldi-doodh once or twice a day during your periods.
• Heat therapy: We all know this one. Applying a heating pad or hot water bottle to your lower abdomen can help relax the uterine muscles, reduce cramping, and can even ease heavy bleeding.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water during your period can help prevent dehydration and may help reduce clot formation.
• Regular exercise: Apart from it’s general health benefits, engaging in regular physical activity can promote better blood circulation and hormone balance, potentially reducing over-bleeding during periods

Related Article: Home Remedies for Heavy Flow Period

How is heavy menstrual bleeding treated?

The treatment for heavy menstrual bleeding varies depending on the underlying cause, as there are numerous factors that can contribute to this condition. Your doctor will perform a thorough evaluation to determine the correct diagnosis and then customize an appropriate treatment plan specifically for you.

In some cases, heavy menstrual bleeding may not have an identifiable cause, which is termed “dysfunctional uterine bleeding.” In such cases, treatment may focus on managing symptoms and reducing blood loss through medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or hormone therapy.

How is heavy period flow prevented?

Just from reading the list of causes, you must’ve realized by now that it’s not always possible to prevent heavy menstrual bleeding. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, exercising regularly, and following a balanced diet can definitely contribute to a better menstrual health.

RIO Heavy Flow Sanitary Pads – Your Reliable Companion During Your Heavy Flow Days

Voted as the best pads for heavy flow in India, RIO pads are designed to provide maximum protection and comfort. RIO Heavy Flow Pads are:

• Engineered to rapidly absorb blood clots and gushes for worry-free periods.
• Fortified with anti-bacterial SAP technology that quickly turns liquid into gel, keeping you dry and fresh.
• Shaped like an hourglass with an extra-long, curved, and wide design for full-coverage and a snug fit.
• Equipped with guards and wings for double protection from leaks and stains.
• Made with a super soft top-sheet to prevent any rashes or irritation.
• 100% free from sulphur, paraben and artificial fragrances.

Choose RIO Heavy Flow Sanitary Pads, choose better periods!

FAQs:

Is heavy menstrual bleeding serious?

Yes. If heavy menstrual bleeding significantly impacts your daily life, leads to anemia (low red blood cell count), or is accompanied by severe pain or other symptoms, it is essential to seek medical evaluation and appropriate treatment.

How do you know if you have heavy menstrual bleeding?

The signs of heavy menstrual bleeding include:

• Need to change sanitary products frequently (every hour or two).
• Periods lasting longer than seven days.
• Heavy periods with blood clots larger than a 1-rupee coin.
• Frequent nighttime awakenings to change pads or tampons.
• Experiencing anaemia symptoms like fatigue and weakness.

What causes heavy menstrual bleeding?

Heavy menstrual bleeding can be caused by hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids, polyps, adenomyosis, endometrial hyperplasia, IUDs, blood clotting disorders, infections, and certain medications. In rare cases, it may be due to underlying health conditions such as cancer.

Can heavy menstrual bleeding be life-threatening?

In most cases, heavy menstrual bleeding is not life-threatening. However, if left untreated, severe anemia resulting from excessive blood loss can have serious health implications. Seeking medical advice and proper management can prevent complications.

What is the prognosis for living with heavy menstrual bleeding?

With appropriate medical care and lifestyle adjustments, the prognosis for living with heavy menstrual bleeding is generally positive. Many treatment options are available to manage the condition effectively and improve overall quality of life.

When is menstrual bleeding considered “heavy”?

Menstrual bleeding is considered “heavy” if it requires changing pads or tampons every hour or two, lasts longer than seven days, or leads to significant discomfort or disruption in daily activities.

What volume is a heavy period?

Generally, a period where you lose 80 ml of blood or more is considered to be heavy or if you’re soaking through a pad in one or two hours. A sign of a heavy period could also be feeling really tired and unable to carry on day-to-day activities. A heavy period could also depend on what your ‘normal’ is. If you notice a sudden change in your period flow, see a doctor.

What Is Menorrhagia?

Menorrhagia refers to abnormally heavy or prolonged bleeding during periods. The “Heavy” means that your periods last longer than 7 days or that you lose more blood than what is typical during menstruation and might have to change pads every two hours which is not normal.