Excessive Menstrual Bleeding: What You Need to Know

Dealing with the ups and downs of our menstrual cycles can be quite a challenge, especially when it concerns the quantity of blood we discharge every month. For a few individuals, menstruation is a trivial matter, demanding only a piece of chocolate and a week's supply of period underwear. Yet, for others, it's characterized by a significant volume of menstrual blood, potentially enduring for several days, accompanied by discomfort and fatigue.

But then, how do we define excessive menstrual blood loss?

Excessive menstrual bleeding is characterized by an abnormally heavy menstrual flow and prolonged bleeding duration. "If substantial bleeding persists for more than 7 days, it is considered abnormal, and we refer to it as excessive menstrual bleeding."Heavy menstrual bleeding is a common medical condition.

Signs of Excessive Menstrual Bleeding:

If you suspect you might be experiencing excessive menstrual bleeding, keep an eye out for the following signs:

1. Menstrual period lasting more than 7 days or irregular periods with heavy bleeding.
2. Soaking through one or more sanitary pads or tampons every hour, multiple times a day.
3. Needing to use double protection (like a pad and tampon) to control the heavy flow.
4. Having to change pads or tampons during the night.
5. Dealing with ongoing pain, cramping, and bleeding.
6. Managing heavy bleeding that disrupts your daily life and planned activities.
7. Feeling extremely fatigued or short of breath.
8. Passing blood clots larger than a US dime.

If you're experiencing heavy menstrual flow along with blood clots, take note.

While the presence of blood clots during heavier periods is common, larger and more frequent clots may warrant medical attention. Blood clots come in various colors and sizes, but if you find clots regularly larger than a US dime, it's important to consult your doctor or gynecologist.

Blood clots could signal underlying health conditions that need evaluation, including endometriosis, adenomyosis, uterine fibroids, hormonal imbalances, miscarriages, and in some cases, even cancer. Taking action and seeking advice from healthcare professionals can provide you with peace of mind and safeguard your well-being.

Strategies for Managing Heavy Menstrual Bleeding:

1.Consult a Healthcare Professional: If you suspect you have heavy menstrual bleeding, seeking medical advice is crucial. A healthcare provider can identify the cause and recommend appropriate treatment options.
 
2.Explore Medication: Depending on the severity and cause of menorrhagia, doctors may suggest medications such as hormonal contraceptives, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or tranexamic acid to manage bleeding.
 
3.Embrace Lifestyle Changes: Incorporating a balanced diet rich in iron and vitamin C can help combat anemia caused by heavy bleeding. Regular exercise and stress reduction techniques, like yoga or meditation, can also help alleviate symptoms.
 
4.Period Products: Opt for high-absorbency menstrual products such as super-absorbent tampons or pads designed for heavy flow. Period underwear, which can hold a substantial amount of liquid, is another option.
 
5.Track and Plan: Keeping a menstrual diary can help you track your cycle, noting when heavy bleeding occurs. This information can empower you to plan ahead and manage your schedule around your periods.
 
6.Support and Well-Being:Dealing with heavy menstrual bleeding can be emotionally taxing. It's important to seek support from friends, family, or support groups where you can share experiences and coping strategies. Counseling or therapy can also provide tools to manage the emotional aspects of living with this condition.
 

Do you need some leak protection?

Experiencing heavy menstrual flow is common, but you don't have to silently endure it. With proper care and our Beautikini leak-proof period underwear, you can take charge of excessive periods and live your life fully—every day of every month.