Heavy Periods (Menorrhagia): Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Guide

Ever heard about prolonged bleeding or abnormal heavy periods? Well, this condition is medically known as menorrhagia. It is a common condition among menstruating women which tends to hinder with their day to day lives. A women with menorrhagia tends to experience longer periods for more than seven days or she experiences heavy periods that calls for frequent pad or tampon change.

In a few cases, this excessive bleeding could be a sign of some underlying condition. This is why it becomes essential to understand the cause and treatment of menorrhagia. At the same, managing the heavy flow which comes with this condition is also important. But you need not worry as we’ve got you covered! Today we will be discussing the causes, diagnosis and treatment of menorrhagia along with some of the best heavy flow pads and tampons for beginners that help in managing heavy flow. To know more, keep on reading!

The cause of heavy periods or menorrhagia is not entirely known. However, medical studies point towards some possible factors such as:

Ovaries carry out the essential function of regulating the menstrual cycle. If they do not release an egg for ovulation, there is no production of progesterone. This, in turn, causes hormonal balance that could lead to heavy period flow.

One of the very first signs of menorrhagia is heavy menstrual bleeding. However, that’s not the only way to detect this condition. Here are some additional signs of menorrhagia that would alert you to visit a doctor:

• Experiencing incessant menstrual bleeding. It is so heavy that you have to change your pad or tampon several times in a day to absorb the flow
• Inability to sleep at night due to the heavy period flow
• Menstrual period that lasts for more than 7 days
• Nausea and weakness that restrain you from doing basic activities
• Shortness of breath
• Lingering pain in the abdomen throughout the period

Time to see the doctor

Here are some of the instances wherein you must seek medical help immediately:

• Heavy vaginal bleeding that seems very abnormal
• Vaginal bleeding beyond the period days
• Vaginal bleeding post menopause

Menorrhagia is diagnosed after evaluating the medical history and pattern of your menstrual cycle. The doctor will ask you to journal the bleeding period and track days of heavy flow. Post this, you will be asked to undergo the following tests:

The treatment of menorrhagia depends upon several factors such as medical history, current health situation, the severity of the condition, the body's acceptance of procedures or therapies, childbearing plans, and personal preferences.

Medication is given to control the effects of the condition and stop heavy menstruation. It is also essential to undertake lifestyle changes, especially if the current habits are extremely unhealthy.

Menorrhagia can have adverse effects on your health and overall wellbeing if it is not detected in early stages. So, make sure that you watch out for its signs and focus on building healthy habits. In order to help you cope with your heavy flow, ALWAYS has got a wide range of products like sanitary pads and tampons for heavy flow.

Try out the ALWAYS Maxi Thick Pads which have unique anti-leakage barriers on all sides and a clean and dry topsheet which provides maximum comfort and protection. Likewise, its extra absorbent core absorbs the flow quickly which makes them the perfect heavy flow pads for periods. On the other hand, the ALWAYS Night Dreamzzz Pads helps you get a sound sleep with protection even on your heavy flow days. These pads have a wider back that offers better coverage. It also has Flexi wings that keeps the pad in place allowing you a worry-free movement.

Another set of heavy flow pads which should be in your vanity are the ALWAYS Cotton Soft Maxi Thick Pads. These heavy pads for periods offer cushiony softness with a comfortable topsheet. The absorbent core locks in your menstrual discharge and avoids the risk of leakage. Additionally, no matter how you move, the flexible wings holds this heavy flow pad in place.

For tampon lovers, the ALWAYS TAMPAX Compak Super Plus Tampons is an ideal option for heavy flow. It has innovative absorption channels that instantly locks in the liquid and hold it in for longer. Additionally, it has a protective skirt that eliminates the risk of leakage. Lastly, it comes with a smooth and compact applicator which makes these tampons perfect for beginners with heavy flow.

Heavy menstrual bleeding can lead to other health conditions, such as:

Menorrhagia is one such condition wherein seeking medical help is a must. Here are some instances where you should consult a doctor immediately:

1. Excessive bleeding that makes you change your pads or tampons every two hours or so.
2. Experiencing irregularity in your periods
3. Bleeding between periods
4. Spotting or bleeding after menopause

Dealing with menorrhagia can be a little tough. But you need to remember that seeking medical treatment is the best way to deal with it. As this condition can lead to other underlying health issues, it's important to act upon soon. So, if at all you notice heavy bleeding or something unusual in your menstrual cycle, don’t hesitate to visit a doctor. To make sure that your periods are on track, try out our Always Period calculator which tracks your cycle and provides you with your next estimated period dates! While we are learning about periods, do check out our tips and advice for women on ovarian cysts symptoms and what is PCOS.

If menorrhagia is left untreated there are chances of developing anaemia. It is condition in which your body has insufficient heavy red blood cells which carry required amount of oxygen to your body's tissues. Women whom are anaemic tend to feel tired and weak.

Hormonal imbalance is one of the most common cause of menorrhagia. It tends to disrupt your regular flow and this can sometimes cause heavy menstruation.

Here are some of the most common symptoms of menorrhagia:

1. Excessive menstrual bleeding
2. Bleeding for more than seven days
3. Noticing period clots larger than the size of a quarter
4. Fatigue and low energy levels
5. Frequent pain in the lower abdominal and pelvic region

Please note the date of last review or update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from your doctor or other qualified clinician. Always is committed to ensuring that all of our products meet rigorous safety standards; Always pads prioritize safety, protection and comfort of its consumers.