1 / What causes heavy bleeding?

There are 3 possible causes:

 

• Uterine-related problems

• Growths or tumors of the uterus that are not cancer; these can be called uterine fibroids or polyps.

• Cancer of the uterus or cervix.

• Certain types of birth control—for example, an intrauterine device (IUD).

• Problems related to pregnancy, such as a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, can cause abnormal bleeding. A miscarriage is when an unborn baby (also called a fetus) dies in the uterus. An ectopic pregnancy is when a baby starts to grow outside the womb (uterus), which is not safe.

 

• Hormone-related problems

 

• Other illnesses or disorders

• Bleeding-related disorders, such as von Willebrand disease (VWD) or platelet function disorder.

• Nonbleeding-related disorders such as liver, kidney, or thyroid disease; pelvic inflammatory disease; and cancer. [2]

 

2 / What are the symptoms of heavy bleeding?

Some women have heavy periods all the time, from their very first menstrual flow. For others, they start after years or decades of typical periods. It could lead to anemia (low levels of red blood cells), which can make you feel weak, tired, or out of breath. Signs and symptoms include:

 

• Change pads or tampons at least once an hour for a day or more

• Change pads in the middle of the night

• Wear two pads at a time to manage heavy flow

• Skip things they like doing because of painful cramps

• Pass blood clots that are the size of quarters

• Have periods that last longer than 7 days

• Feel tired or short of breath

• Bleed between periods

• Bleed after menopause [3]

 

3 / Is there a cure or treatment for heavy bleeding?

You can't prevent all causes of heavy period bleeding. But talking with your healthcare provider to get diagnosed and treated can help you manage your bleeding so that it doesn't interfere with your quality of life. Treatment may begin with medication and then progress to minor procedures and surgical options. Speak with your provider to decide which options work best for your health and your goals for treatment. [4]