Period Problems
Most people experience periods every 28 days, although cycles can range from 21 to 38 days, and the bleeding lasts a few days. It marks the stage in the menstrual cycle when blood is expelled from the vagina.
Period problems can include painful periods, heavy bleeding, and irregular cycles. Mood changes related to periods are also common. While these issues often don’t pose serious health risks, they can significantly impact daily life.
Period pain, usually felt as cramps in the lower abdomen, back, and thighs, can vary in intensity. These cramps typically begin with bleeding and last for 2-3 days.
To manage period pain at home, you can:
- Take painkillers like ibuprofen, aspirin, or paracetamol
- Apply heat using a hot water bottle or heat pad
- Engage in gentle exercise
- Massage the area with light, circular movements
If your period pain is severe, consult your GP to rule out any underlying conditions. They may suggest trying contraception, such as the combined pill, which can help alleviate period pain.
Heavy periods, or menorrhagia, involve changing your pad, tampon, or menstrual cup more frequently than every 2 hours, or passing blood clots. Typical periods last between 2 and 7 days, with an average blood loss of 2-3 tablespoons.
Some causes of heavy periods include:
- Uterine fibroids
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Non-hormonal IUDs
- Anticoagulant medications
- Chemotherapy Heavy bleeding can be distressing and increase the risk of anemia. Your doctor may prescribe medication or suggest contraception methods like the combined pill or hormonal coil to manage heavy periods.
Hormonal changes can cause your menstrual cycle to become irregular. This can occur when switching contraceptive methods or due to natural hormonal fluctuations during puberty, approaching menopause, significant weight loss, or excessive exercise. If your periods are irregular, ensure you are up-to-date with pregnancy tests, STI tests, and cervical screenings to rule out common causes.
Periods normally stop during pregnancy or after menopause. Certain contraceptives can also temporarily stop periods.
For some, absent periods can indicate underlying conditions like PCOS, premature ovarian failure or RED-S. If your periods stop and you’re not pregnant, see your doctor. They may refer you to a specialist to determine the cause and find appropriate treatment.
Hormonal changes around your period can cause symptoms like bloating, breast pain, mood swings, appetite changes, skin and hair issues, sleep disturbances, and changes in sex drive. These symptoms typically improve when your period starts.
Managing PMS can be helped by maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation.
Severe PMS symptoms, known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), may require urgent medical advice. If you experience extreme symptoms, contact your GP or call 111 for emergency assistance.
What causes period pain?
Period pain is caused by the muscular contractions of the womb, which help expel blood and tissue. These contractions can compress the blood vessels, cutting off oxygen to the tissue and triggering pain. Sometimes, conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, or pelvic inflammatory disease can cause period pain. If there’s no underlying condition, period pain often improves with age.
What support is available?
Discussing your period problems with family or your partner can provide emotional support.
If period issues are affecting your daily life, consider booking a consultation with one of our expert team in our Reproductive and Sexual Health Clinic.
For more information and to explore contraception options, visit our contraceptive page.
Sudden changes in your period should prompt a visit to a doctor or clinic. Contact a healthcare professional if your period includes:
- Sudden, severe abdominal pain
- A large number of blood clots
- Strongly unpleasant-smelling discharge