Cycle normalcy

Why Is My Period So Heavy?

2026-06-23 · 2:12 · Menstrual Cycle

The short answer

Why is your period so heavy? Heavy periods can come from hormonal shifts, growths in the uterus like fibroids, or conditions like PCOS or thyroid problems. First, let me show you what actually counts as heavy, because it's more than just feeling like a lot.

In this video

Often hormones, fibroids, or conditions like PCOS

Heavy = soaking hourly, big clots, bleeding over 7 days

Doctors call it heavy if you're soaking through a pad or tampon every hour for several hours in a row, passing clots bigger than a quarter, bleeding for more than seven days, or having to wake up at night to change. If that sounds like you, it's worth understanding why.

Most common cause: a hormone imbalance

The most common cause is hormonal. When the balance of estrogen and progesterone is off, the uterine lining can build up too much and shed heavily. Beyond hormones: fibroids and polyps, which are growths in the uterus, as well as PCOS, thyroid issues, and sometimes a copper I U D, can all lead to heavier bleeding.

Heavy periods are the top cause of iron deficiency in women

Heavy periods matter for more than comfort. Losing a lot of blood each month is the most common cause of iron deficiency in women, which can leave you tired, weak, or short of breath. Tracking how heavy your periods are in an app like PinkyBloom gives your doctor really useful information.

Meets the heavy signs, or feeling drained? See a doctor

So when should you see a doctor? If your period meets those heavy signs, or if you feel exhausted, dizzy, or your heart races, don't wait it out. Heavy bleeding is common and very treatable, and it's worth getting your iron checked too.

It's common and very treatable, you don't have to just cope

The good news is there are lots of options, from simple hormonal treatments to addressing a specific cause like fibroids. You don't have to just put up with periods that disrupt your life.

PinkyBloom, link in description. Educational only, not medical advice.

So, to recap: heavy means soaking hourly, big clots, or bleeding over seven days. The causes are often hormonal, or things like fibroids, PCOS, and thyroid issues, and heavy periods can drain your iron. It's common and treatable, so see a doctor if it sounds like you. PinkyBloom helps you track your flow, link's in the description. This video is general education, not a substitute for professional medical advice. Take care, and I'll see you in the next one.

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