Heavy periods can be a real pain. The discomfort, inconvenience, and anxiety that come with heavy menstrual bleeding can disrupt our lives and make us miserable. But there are effective ways to manage heavy periods and gain control of your life.
A heavy period (also called menorrhagia) is when you have an unusually heavy menstrual flow that can be both physically and emotionally draining. Instead of the typical 4-6 tablespoons of blood shed during a period, heavy periods can involve much more blood loss.
There can be different reasons this happens to certain people, including:
Hormonal imbalance: Sometimes, an imbalance in hormones can lead to heavier periods.
Medical conditions: Conditions like fibroids, PCOS, or endometriosis can cause heavy bleeding.
Birth control and medications: Certain birth control methods and blood-thinning medications can lead to heavier periods as a side effect.
Genetics: Some people might get heavy periods from their family.
Age and lifestyle: Young teenagers who have just started their period, and menopausal women may also have heavy periods. Lifestyle factors like being overweight can also play a role.
If you find your periods heavier than usual, speak with your doctor. They can help pinpoint the cause and recommend the best ways to manage it, so you can have more comfortable periods.
You'll know whether you have heavy periods by paying attention to your menstrual flow and how it affects your life. Here are some signs that may mean you have a heavy period:
Frequent changing: Do you find yourself changing your pad or tampon every hour or two? Are you using super-absorbent products? This could be a sign of heavy bleeding.
Bleeding that lasts longer than a week: A normal menstrual cycle usually lasts around 5 to 7 days. If your period normally lasts longer than this, it might be heavy.
Anemia symptoms: Heavy periods can lead to anemia because of blood loss. Look out for symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
Overflow or leaking: If your menstrual flow normally leaks onto your clothes, this could be a sign of heavy bleeding.
Disruption to daily life: If your heavy period interferes with your daily life, it's worth addressing.
So, how can you stop heavy bleeding? Keep reading to discover five proven methods for putting the brakes on or reduce heavy menstrual bleeding.
Start by speaking with your GP who can help determine the cause of your heavy bleeding. This could include conditions like fibroids, endometriosis, or hormonal imbalances. They will run through a medical history, and might run blood tests to look for the cause.
Once you know what is causing it, your doctor can recommend treatment options, to help reduce heavy bleeding. Don't hesitate to seek medical advice—it's the first step toward getting relief.
Hormonal birth control methods, like birth control pills, patches, or intrauterine devices (IUDs), can reduce heavy menstrual bleeding. These methods work by regulating your hormone levels, which can make your periods lighter and more manageable. It's important to discuss your options with a healthcare professional to determine the best hormonal birth control for you.
Sometimes, simple lifestyle changes can help reduce heavy periods. Maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and a balanced diet can all contribute to better menstrual health. Supplements like iron, vitamin B, and magnesium may also help reduce heavy bleeding and the fatigue that often comes with it. Always talk with your healthcare provider before making changes or starting any new supplements.
Many women have found relief from heavy periods through alternative therapies such as acupuncture, herbal remedies, and yoga. While these methods might not work for everyone, they are worth thinking about. Always speak with a doctor before trying any alternative therapy, and be patient as it can take time to see results.
Stress can exacerbate heavy periods and menstrual discomfort. Including stress management and relaxation techniques in your routine can help reduce your symptoms. You could try things like:
Yoga: Gentle yoga poses and deep breathing exercises can promote relaxation, ease menstrual cramps, and reduce bleeding.
Meditation: Regular meditation can help reduce stress and anxiety, which in turn may lead to a reduction in heavy bleeding.
Aromatherapy: Some calming essential oils, like lavender and chamomile, can reduce stress during your period.
Warm baths: Soaking in a warm bath can soothe your body and mind, giving you relief from heavy menstrual flow.
Biofeedback: This technique involves using electronic monitoring to help reduce stress responses that can make heavy periods worse.
Remember, managing stress is not only beneficial for your menstrual health but also for your overall well-being. Experiment with these techniques to find what works best for you in reducing stress during your period.
Now, let's introduce you to Fluxies, a period pants brand that offers a comfortable solution to heavy periods. Period pants provide protection and peace of mind during your menstrual cycle.
Here's why Fluxies are a great choice for managing heavy periods:
Super absorbent: Fluxies can hold up to five tampons' worth of blood, making them a great choice for heavy flows.
Leak-Proof: These period pants have a leak-proof layer that keeps you dry and worry-free throughout the day.
Eco-Friendly: Fluxies are a sustainable choice, as they remove the need for disposable products, reducing your environmental footprint.
Comfortable and stylish: With a range of styles and sizes, Fluxies are designed for comfort and confidence.
Easy to care for: Fluxies are machine washable, making them easy to use and maintain.
Heavy periods can be hard to manage, but you have options. Proven methods exist to help you gain control over your menstrual health, from exploring lifestyle changes to alternative therapies. Remember everyone is different - you might need to try different methods to find the one that works for you.
You have control over your menstrual health, regardless of what you choose. This includes medical treatments, lifestyle changes, alternative remedies, or wearing comfy period pants. With these options available, those heavy periods won't be a burden anymore, and you'll have the freedom to fully enjoy life. Your journey to improved menstrual health begins today, and you've got the know-how and options to make it a success.
