There’s menstruation and then there’s menorrhagia, the medical term which is often defined as a very heavy period lasting longer than 7 days. If this is you, discover how to manage this time of the month and get through the day with confidence.
We understand that heavy periods can disrupt your daily routine and affect your self-confidence. That’s why we’re here to provide expert tips on managing your period at any time of day, whether you’re at work or ready for bed. Discover the reasons behind menorrhagia and some of the best treatment options available.
In order to manage any periods, it helps to truly understand your flow.
A very heavy, or extremely heavy period (menorrhagia) is typically defined as menstrual bleeding that:
Even though heavy periods are not always a sign something is wrong, if you are already using products for a very heavy flow and constantly find yourself needing to change your period products more frequently than you would like, we advise consulting your healthcare provider.
You can learn how to manage very heavy periods by wrapping your head around the causes and medical treatments available. There are so many menstruators who don’t even know that they experience heavy bleeding, irregular bleeding or perhaps more serious conditions like endometriosis, fibroids and PCOS.
Finding relief from heavy periods is crucial for maintaining your comfort and overall well-being. Remember, finding what works best for you may involve some trial and error. Stay attuned to your body's needs and don't hesitate to reach out for professional support when needed. Your doctor, gynaecologist, or women’s health specialist will be able to identify and diagnose why you are experiencing Menorrhagia and how best to treat it.
With that being said, here is a list of tips on how to ease heavy periods naturally.
There are tampons, pads and menstrual cups specially designed to handle an extremely, or very heavy flow. They provide extra absorbency and protection, giving you peace of mind while minimising the risk of leaks and discomfort. However, you need to pay attention to your flow and make sure you change/empty your period products at least every 4 - 8 hours.
Your body may need some extra rest during menstruation, especially when dealing with extremely heavy periods. Allow yourself to prioritise relaxation by getting enough sleep and listening to your body's signals for restorative breaks throughout the day. Even a 15-minute tea break in the garden is perfect for coping with this time of the month. .
Consuming a balanced diet rich in iron, vitamins, and minerals is essential for supporting your body during menstruation. Include foods like leafy greens, lean proteins, whole grains, and fruits to provide your body with the nutrients it needs to function optimally and manage heavy periods more effectively.
Tracking your period can be a powerful tool for managing heavy periods. By keeping a record of your menstrual cycle and noting any patterns or changes in flow, you can better anticipate and prepare for heavier days, allowing you to take proactive measures.
Gentle exercise, such as going for a walk or practising yoga, can be beneficial during your period. It helps improve blood circulation, releases endorphins that elevate your mood, and may even help alleviate menstrual symptoms. Listen to your body and choose activities that feel comfortable and soothing.
Applying a heating pad or hot water bottle to your lower abdomen can help soothe cramps. This provides relief from the pain that typically comes with a heavy menstrual flow. The warmth helps to relax the muscles and alleviate discomfort, allowing you to go about your day more comfortably.
Soaking in a warm bath can work wonders for easing muscle tension and providing relaxation during heavy periods. The warm water helps to soothe cramps and create a calming effect on both your body and mind.
Treating yourself to a full-body massage can provide deep relaxation and alleviate the muscle tension associated with heavy periods. The gentle pressure and kneading techniques promote blood flow and release endorphins, helping to ease pain and promote a sense of well-being.
Managing heavy periods at work can indeed feel challenging, but implementing a few simple strategies can make a significant difference in finding relief and maintaining productivity. In a study published by the British Medical Journal (BMJ), around *one in seven participants said they had taken time off from work or school during their period. This shows exactly how debilitating periods at work can be, especially when you have a heavy flow or period pain.
Here are some tips on how to manage heavy periods at work:
Learning how to manage heavy periods at work comes down to experimenting with different methods and figuring out what works best for you. We encourage open conversations about periods at work with your co-workers and management. Create a safe space.
When it comes to managing heavy periods at night, it can be a daunting task. But there are ways to find comfort and relief, ensuring a restful sleep. Bid farewell to those nighttime period surprises and say hello to peaceful slumber.
Here are some tips on how to calm heavy periods at night:
Discovering how to cope with a heavy flow at night might take some time. Try out different methods until you find the best solution.
There are plenty of known causes behind heavy periods. We recommend paying attention to your body and trying to pinpoint what else you are feeling. Do you have unbearable cramps? Are you really tired? All this information will help with diagnosis.
Here are some common causes for heavy periods:
When it comes to heavy periods, there are plenty of treatment options available to help you regain control and find relief. Whether it's to help reduce your flow or alleviate associated symptoms, if you find that natural remedies simply aren’t cutting it for you, your doctor or gynaecologist may be able to offer you several medical options to try out. Typically, these medical treatments are only necessary if you have extensively tried at-home remedies and lifestyle changes.
Managing heavy periods doesn't have to feel like a never-ending challenge. By understanding the causes, exploring various strategies, and seeking appropriate treatments, you can regain control and find relief. Remember, you're not alone in this journey. Reach out to healthcare professionals, connect with support networks, and empower yourself with knowledge.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help regulate your cycle and reduce heavy menstrual bleeding. The therapy requires taking the oestrogen hormone every day and occasionally taking progesterone. You can only undergo this treatment with a prescription and under medical supervision.
A heavy menstrual period can potentially affect fertility. However, it’s typically the underlying cause of the heavy periods that directly affects fertility and your ability to have a healthy pregnancy. For example, PCOS can cause heavy bleeding and is known to affect fertility.
Heavy periods are not always a sign something is wrong, and for many they are completely normal, but they can indicate several underlying health, such as, hormonal imbalances, PCOS, Endometriosis, Fibroids and so much more. So if you are in any doubt about why your periods are so heavy you should consult a healthcare professional for a more accurate diagnosis.
Ibuprofen can help with Menorrhagia by slowing down prostaglandin production. Less prostaglandin results in less uterine shedding, which means periods may be a little lighter.
You can help heavy and painful periods with various lifestyle changes. Consider the following:
Heavy periods are not always dangerous, but they can be if you experience ongoing heavy bleeding for longer than 24 hours while on your period. See a gynaecologist or doctor if you have prolonged periods that prevent you from completing daily activities. A common health condition caused by heavy periods is anaemia, which can leave you feeling tired and weak due to a lack of iron.
A heavy period is not necessarily healthy if you experience constant heavy bleeding for more than 1 day while on your period or causes other health conditions. The significant blood loss could result in anaemia which is characterised by an iron deficiency and typically treated with iron supplements.
