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Hormones & cycles

Heavy or irregular periods

A period is heavy if it interferes with your life. Bleeding between periods, after sex, or after menopause always deserves review.

Common symptoms

  • Soaking through pads or tampons hourly
  • Clots larger than a 50c coin
  • Bleeding longer than 8 days
  • Tiredness, breathlessness, pica

Useful to track

  • Products used per day
  • Flood or leak events
  • Bleeding days per cycle
  • Iron symptoms

Tests and conversations that may be relevant

  • Full blood count and iron studies
  • Pelvic ultrasound
  • Thyroid function
  • Cervical screening if due

When to see a GP or specialist

  • Bleeding that changes your plans
  • Bleeding between periods or after sex
  • Any bleeding after menopause

Urgent warning signs

  • Soaking a pad an hour for 2+ hours, faintness or chest pain

In Australia, call 000 or healthdirect on 1800 022 222.

Questions to take to a clinician

  • Is my iron low?
  • What options do I have that are not hormonal?
  • What would make you refer me?
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Related

PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome)

eophi shares general information reviewed against Australian guidance. It never diagnoses. If something feels urgent, call 000 or healthdirect on 1800 022 222.