Heavy Periods 

Heavy periods, also known as menorrhagia, can significantly impact your daily life.

Symptoms of heavy periods

Heavy periods can vary from person to person, but common indicators include:

• Soaking through one or more sanitary pads or tampons every hour for several consecutive hours
• Needing to use double sanitary protection to control your menstrual flow
• Waking up to change sanitary protection during the night
• Experiencing bleeding that lasts longer than a week
• Passing large blood clots
• Restricting daily activities due to heavy menstrual flow
• Have bleeding that lasts more than 8 days (prolonged bleeding).

Heavy periods can lead to low iron levels and anaemia. These can cause you to feel tired more easily, feel weak or dizzy, be short of breath or have chest pains.

Diagnosis

If you experience any of the above symptoms, it's essential to seek a diagnosis from a healthcare professional. A doctor may:

• Review your medical history
• Conduct a physical examination
• Order blood tests to check for anaemia or other underlying conditions
• Recommend an ultrasound or other imaging tests to identify any abnormalities in the uterus
• In some cases, a cervical sample test or sample of the lining of the uterus (biopsy) to see if you have an infection, inflammation or changes in the cells that might be or cause cancer

When to see a doctor

• If your menstrual flow is heavy enough to affect your quality of life
• If you are experiencing symptoms of anaemia
• If you notice any sudden changes in your menstrual cycle

Treatment options

There are several treatment options available for managing heavy periods:

Medical treatments:

• Medications: Your doctor may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen to reduce menstrual blood loss and relieve cramps. Hormonal therapies, like oral contraceptives, can also help regulate your menstrual cycle and reduce bleeding.
• Tranexamic acid: This medication helps to reduce menstrual blood loss and is taken only during your period.
• Intrauterine Device (IUD) such as a Mirena
• Iron supplements: If you're anaemic due to heavy bleeding, your doctor may recommend iron supplements.
• Surgery: Surgery options are only considered when medical treatments have not been effective.

Self-care options:

• Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in iron and vitamin C can help manage symptoms of anaemia. The best source of iron in food is red meat. Eating plenty of fresh vegetables and fruit are high in vitamin C, which helps iron absorption in your gut. 
• Exercise: Regular physical activity can help reduce stress and improve overall health.
• Relaxation techniques: Make time to do something relaxing or something that you know helps your mood. 
• Period tracking: You may also find it useful to track your periods each month using either a symptom diary or period app on your phone.

Conclusion

Heavy periods can be challenging, but with the right care and treatment, they can be managed effectively. Always consult a medical professional if you are concerned about your menstrual health. By understanding your symptoms, seeking appropriate treatment, and exploring self-help options, you can take control of your menstrual health and improve your quality of life.

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