Heavy Menstrual Periods (Menorrhagia)

Heavy menstrual periods (menorrhagia) are periods in which bleeding is heavier or lasts longer than normal. A woman may pass large blood clots and have to change pads or tampons often or have periods that last longer than 7 days.

Heavy periods have many possible causes. Most of them are not serious. But heavy periods can lead to anemia. Treatment can help reduce bleeding and prevent anemia.

Current as of: October 13, 2016

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica, MD - Family Medicine & A. Evan Eyler, MD, MPH - Family Medicine, Psychiatry