Let’s talk about something that way too many people brush off as “normal”: heavy periods, also called menorrhagia. If your period leaves you exhausted, changing products constantly, or planning your life around bathroom breaks, it’s worth knowing that you’re not alone — and it’s not something you just have to live with!
What counts as “heavy?"
Doctors define menorrhagia as losing more than 80mL of blood per cycle or bleeding for over 7 days. But let’s be real — nobody measures that at home! Here are some signs to watch for:
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Changing pads/tampons every hour for several hours
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Needing to double up on protection (like tampon + pad)
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Waking up at night to change products
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Passing large blood clots
If you’re also feeling tired all the time, dizzy, short of breath, or weak, it could be due to iron-deficiency anemia, which is really common with heavy periods.
Why it matters
Beyond the fatigue and health risks, heavy periods can seriously disrupt life. Studies show over 70% of people with menorrhagia say it limits their daily activities, and about 40% miss work or school because of it.
On top of that, the stress of worrying about leaks or stains can take a toll on mental health, sometimes leading to anxiety or even depression.
What causes it
There isn’t one single reason. Sometimes it’s linked to:
- Fibroids or polyps in the uterus
- Hormonal imbalances (like PCOS)
- Blood clotting disorders
- Certain medications or a copper IUD
- And sometimes, unfortunately, no clear cause is found.
What you can do
The good news: there are options! Treatment depends on the cause, your symptoms, and whether you want to have children in the future. Some common approaches are:
Medication: NSAIDs (like ibuprofen), tranexamic acid, or hormonal birth control can all help reduce bleeding.
Procedures: Endometrial ablation, fibroid treatments, or — in more severe cases — surgery.
Iron supplements and diet: If you’re low on iron, restoring your levels can make a big difference in energy and focus.
And while you work with your doctor, it helps to have the right products on hand. Many people with heavy flow rely on super tampons or super pads to feel more secure — especially on their heaviest days or overnight. They won’t solve the root cause, but they can make getting through your period less stressful.
Bottom line
Heavy periods are common, but they’re not normal if they’re taking over your life. If this sounds like you, bring it up with your doctor — early diagnosis and the right treatment can completely change your quality of life. And in the meantime, know there are products (like our super pads and tampons) designed to support you through the heavy days.
