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Heavy Periods: When to Suspect a Bleeding Disorder
Published: Oct 12, 2023
Heavy menstrual bleeding affects many women, but it can sometimes signal an underlying bleeding disorder. Knowing when to seek help is crucial for your health and quality of life.
What Counts as 'Heavy' Bleeding?
Heavy periods, medically known as menorrhagia, involve bleeding that lasts more than 7 days or is extremely heavy. Signs include soaking through a pad or tampon every hour for several hours, passing large blood clots, or needing to use double sanitary protection. If you're constantly worried about leaking or your period interferes with daily life, it's worth discussing with a doctor.
When Heavy Periods Might Mean More
While many causes of heavy periods aren't serious, sometimes they can indicate a bleeding disorder. This is especially true if you have other bleeding symptoms like easy bruising or frequent nosebleeds. A family history of bleeding problems also increases the likelihood. Von Willebrand disease, the most common inherited bleeding disorder, often first shows up as heavy periods in women.
Impact on Your Health
Untreated heavy menstrual bleeding can lead to iron deficiency anemia, causing fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. It can also significantly impact your quality of life, causing missed work or school days and limiting social activities. Identifying and treating an underlying bleeding disorder can dramatically improve these symptoms and your overall well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, they often first appear during puberty.
Likely yes, to check for anemia and clotting factors.
Often yes, but it's important to identify any underlying cause first.
Don't Suffer in Silence
Heavy periods aren't something you just have to live with – they can be a sign of treatable conditions.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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