Why is my period so heavy?

Heavy periods have a working definition: soaking a pad or tampon every hour for several hours, passing clots larger than a quarter, bleeding past seven days, or bleeding that disrupts sleep and life. If that is you, it deserves attention - heavy menstrual bleeding is common, but it is also the leading cause of iron-deficiency anemia in women, and womenshealth.gov notes anemia brings fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath on top of the bleeding itself. The cause list: hormone imbalance - especially in teens and perimenopause, when ovulation gets erratic - fibroids, which are benign uterine growths and the most common structural cause; polyps; adenomyosis; an underactive thyroid; bleeding disorders, which are underdiagnosed - a heavy period since the very first one plus easy bruising or nosebleeds is the clue; and sometimes no clear cause at all. The practical path: track flow for a cycle or two - pad counts beat vague descriptions - and get checked: an exam, blood count for anemia, thyroid test, and often an ultrasound. Treatment works: hormonal options, tranexamic acid for the bleeding days, iron for the anemia, and procedures for fibroids when needed. Nobody should plan their life around a bathroom map. Pymander is a free AI doctor, 24/7 by text. Describe your flow, and it can help you prep for the visit.