If you’ve noticed your periods lasting longer or the flow becoming heavier than usual, you’re not alone. Many women experience changes in their menstrual cycle at some point, but if your bleeding is unusually heavy or prolonged, you need to know what’s causing it.
At Bethany Women’s Healthcare, Giuseppe F. Ramunno, MD, and our team have expertise in abnormal bleeding. Heavy menstrual bleeding means losing more blood than normal during your period. This might look like soaking through pads or tampons every hour, passing large clots, or having your period last more than seven days.
While occasional heavier cycles can happen, consistently heavy periods can signal an underlying issue.
Several factors can contribute to unusually heavy periods, including hormonal changes and underlying medical conditions. Some of the most common causes to be aware of include:
Estrogen and progesterone regulate your menstrual cycle. When these hormones become unbalanced, such as during puberty, perimenopause, or with certain medical conditions, it can cause the uterine lining to thicken, leading to heavier bleeding.
Noncancerous growths in the uterus, called fibroids or polyps, can interfere with how the uterus contracts during menstruation. This may result in prolonged or heavier bleeding.
These conditions cause the tissue that normally lines the uterus to grow outside of it (endometriosis) or within the uterine wall (adenomyosis). Both can lead to painful, heavy periods and spotting between cycles.
Less commonly, a bleeding or clotting disorder can make it difficult for your body to stop menstrual bleeding once it starts. This is often diagnosed after other causes have been ruled out.
Certain medications, including blood thinners and some types of hormonal contraception, can make periods heavier. Conversely, other birth control methods like hormonal IUDs can actually lighten them over time.
An overactive or underactive thyroid gland can disrupt your menstrual cycle and cause changes in flow and duration.
You should contact our team if you’re:
Heavy bleeding isn’t something you have to live with. Dr. Ramunno can perform exams, blood work, or imaging tests to identify the cause and recommend treatments, such as hormonal therapy, medication, or minimally invasive procedures, to regulate your cycle and relieve symptoms.
While heavy periods are common, they’re not normal when they interfere with your daily life or cause anemia. Paying attention to your symptoms and getting an evaluation can help restore balance and protect your long-term health.
If heavy periods are affecting your energy or quality of life, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment at Bethany Women’s Healthcare today to find relief and regain control of your health.
Call us at 623.323.5861 or book an appointment online now.