See a GP or gynaecologist if periods are heavy enough to affect work, sleep or daily activities; if you bleed between periods or after sex; or if you develop tiredness, breathlessness or symptoms of iron deficiency. I use the assessment to identify likely causes and plan proportionate investigation.
Heavy periods can occur for many reasons, including fibroids, adenomyosis, endometriosis, hormonal changes, bleeding disorders and some medicines. Sometimes no structural cause is found, but the impact on your life and iron status still deserves attention.
At Victoria Medical, I may bring together history, examination where appropriate, blood tests, pelvic ultrasound and gynaecology review.
Written & reviewed by
Dr George XynopoulosConsultant Physician & Cardiologist · GMC 3502763 · Reviewed by Dr George Xynopoulos, GMC 3502763
Clinical review date: 21 August 2026
View full profileWhat counts as a heavy period?
The amount of bleeding is difficult to measure precisely at home. It is usually more useful to focus on impact: changing protection very frequently, flooding through clothes or bedding, passing large clots, avoiding activities or developing symptoms of anaemia.
| Feature | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Bleeding affects work or normal activity | The impact itself warrants assessment. |
| Flooding, frequent changes or night-time disruption | May indicate heavy menstrual bleeding. |
| Pelvic pressure or pain | May suggest a structural or inflammatory cause. |
| Tiredness, dizziness or breathlessness | May indicate iron deficiency or anaemia. |
Possible investigations
The right tests depend on your age, symptoms, medical history and examination. A clinician may recommend full blood count and ferritin, pelvic ultrasound, pregnancy testing where relevant, cervical screening if due, or gynaecology review.
When to seek urgent help
Seek urgent medical help for very heavy bleeding with fainting, severe abdominal pain, possible pregnancy-related bleeding, chest pain, severe breathlessness or signs of shock.
If bleeding is severe or you feel faint, call 999 or attend urgent care rather than waiting for a routine appointment.
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