Why is my period so heavy?

Bottom lineHeavy periods are usually caused by hormonal imbalance, perimenopause, fibroids, polyps, adenomyosis, PCOS/PMOS, thyroid problems, a copper IUD, or stopping birth control; see a doctor if you soak a pad or tampon every 1 to 2 hours, pass large clots, bleed longer than 7 days, have anemia symptoms, or notice a sudden change, since it is treatable.

Heavy periods are common and usually have an identifiable, treatable cause. A sudden change to heavier bleeding is worth investigating.

Common reasons

• Hormonal imbalance - too much estrogen relative to progesterone thickens the lining
• Perimenopause - hormone swings often cause heavier, irregular periods
• Fibroids and polyps - benign growths in the uterus
• Adenomyosis - uterine lining tissue growing into the muscle wall
• PCOS/PMOS - irregular ovulation can lead to heavy bleeds
• Thyroid problems or bleeding disorders
• Copper IUD - can increase flow
• Stopping hormonal birth control

When to see a doctor

• Bleeding that soaks a pad or tampon every 1 to 2 hours
• Large clots or bleeding longer than 7 days
• Fatigue, breathlessness, or paleness (possible anemia)
• A sudden change to much heavier periods

Heavy bleeding is treatable, often with hormonal options or by addressing the cause, so it's worth raising rather than enduring.

See what is a heavy period for the full picture and track your flow with Femora.

Logging flow and clots in Femora helps you and your doctor pinpoint what changed.