Heavy Periods
Why are my periods so heavy?
Heavy periods is one of the most common complaints that a women presents with to a gynecologist.
Abnormal uterine bleeding is, in fact, so common that it affects 1 in 10 women globally and 1 in 6 women in India!
This problem can bring a major toll on women’s health, making the lady not only vulnerable to common infections but also weak in general owing to development of anaemia.
Why are my periods so heavy?
Heavy periods is one of the most common complaints that a women presents with to a gynecologist.
Abnormal uterine bleeding is, in fact, so common that it affects 1 in 10 women globally and 1 in 6 women in India!
This problem can bring a major toll on women’s health, making the lady not only vulnerable to common infections but also weak in general owing to development of anaemia.
Menstrual period, commonly known as chum, is what every women normally experiences once a month. However, it is the time of the month that she is NOT looking forward to.
Anticipation of period may be associated with immense amount of anxiety and a missed period is another stress altogether (for women who aren’t expecting a pregnancy).
Hence, periods form a very integral part of women’s health, brought about by a tight balance of hormones, the latter being in sync with the woman’s lifestyle.
Let’s understand periods a bit in detail.
What Are Normal Periods?
Normal periods are defined by the following:
- Menstrual Cycle Length of 28days +/- 7 days
- Flow Duration of 5 to 7 days
- Pain on Day 1 and 2
- Average blood loss of 80 ml. The following are the average number of sanitary pads soaked during a normal period:
Day 1:
Day 2 & 3:
Day 4:
Day 5:
What Are Abnormal Periods?
Periods that cross the limits of a normal period, are defined as abnormal periods. They are characterised by the following:
- Frequency: Menstrual cycle length of less than 20 days or more than 36 days
- Flow Duration of less than 4 days or more than 7 days
- Type of Flow: Presence of blood CLOTS / CHUNKS, or Continuous Spotting
- Heavy Flow: More than average blood loss of 80 ml. Soakage of more number of sanitary pads or tampons, e.g. changing one every hour.
- Severe unbearable Pain
