- By Dr Eileen Sables, GP at Tend Pakuranga
Heavy and painful periods are absolutely not normal, despite what many women have been led to believe.
As we approach Tend Women’s Health Week (August 11-17), it’s time to address the health issues that far too many women silently endure.
Many girls and women grow up believing severe cramping, blood clots and soaking through sanitary products is simply “part of being a woman”.
This harmful misconception needs to change – because suffering through debilitating periods is not normal.
Blood clots are one of the clearest indicators your period is abnormally heavy.
Contrary to popular belief, any clotting during menstruation is not normal.
To put this into perspective, imagine a shot glass – that’s about 60ml – which is the normal amount of blood lost during an entire menstrual cycle.
When bleeding exceeds this amount, blood accumulates in the uterus and begins to clot because it cannot pass quickly enough through the small cervical opening.
If you’re changing your sanitary protection more than once per hour, or if period pain prevents you from carrying out normal activities, these are clear signals medical intervention is needed.
Other warning signs include bleeding for more than a week, flooding or leaking despite adequate protection and any clots regardless of size.
The encouraging news is effective treatments exist. You don’t need to suffer in silence.
There are many medications for managing heavy bleeding and severe period pain – designed to reduce menstrual flow and associated discomfort.
Don’t postpone seeking help. Book an appointment with your healthcare provider who can properly assess your symptoms and discuss treatment options tailored to you.
