Don't suffer in silence: why you should seek support if you struggle with heavy periods

Many women accept that at least one week of each month is going to be horrible, with cramps, bleeding, headaches and more interrupting their daily schedules. But while some discomfort is natural when you get your period, it’s important to seek help if you’re suffering. 

Heavy menstrual bleeding, also known as menorrhagia, can significantly affect your physical and emotional well-being. It can also be a red flag (pun intended) for some health conditions that may need treatment. 

Here, we explore why you shouldn’t suffer in silence if you are regularly struggling with heavy periods. 

Physical health conditions

While the usual symptoms of periods can include bleeding, cramping, and other changes throughout the body, severe cramping and heavy bleeding that is new or unusual for you should always be investigated. Heavy periods can be a symptom of many health issues, including adenomyosis, fibroids, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and hormonal imbalances. 

Consulting a healthcare practitioner can help identify the cause of your discomfort and ensure you receive the appropriate treatment. Even if you don’t have an underlying condition, excessive blood loss during periods can lead to iron deficiency anaemia, which can cause fatigue, dizziness, and weakness. Seeking medical support will help ensure your iron levels are managed if you experience regular heavy periods. 

Quality of life

Heavy bleeding on your period can take its toll on daily life, making it harder to complete your usual routines. Social activities, work, and even relaxation are all a little tougher to enjoy when you are suffering with your time of the month.

Seeking support from your employer, team, friends and loved ones can help to reduce the external pressures during this time so you can focus inwards a little easier. Though they may not be able to fix your symptoms, making people close to you aware that you’re struggling will help them offer support and improve your quality of life until you feel better.

Whether it means working from home or taking a couple of sick days, there’s no shame in needing to put yourself first and prioritise your health when you are experiencing a heavy and painful period. Similarly, asking for some extra support from friends and family to get household chores done or look after the kids may help you get the rest you need to feel a little brighter. 

Emotional and mental health

Periods can heavily impact our emotional state and mental health. Not only is the discomfort emotionally draining, but hormonal fluctuations can cause mood swings, irritability, and make it harder to keep a clear mind. Research has shown that for some women, the drop in oestrogen and fluctuation of progesterone during their periods causes a drop in dopamine. Left unchecked, this can lead to depression and anxiety, so seeking support is crucial.

Again, turning to loved ones or friends for support can be really helpful, but you could also consider speaking to a qualified counsellor or therapy provider, too. If you are experiencing heavy bleeding with every period, ongoing support is essential to maintain your wellbeing.

Considering treatment options

There is help available if heavy periods are becoming a common issue for you, with treatments ranging from medications, hormonal therapies, and even surgical interventions for severe cases. Of course, only a healthcare professional can advise you on what’s best for you, but by booking that initial consultation you can begin to take control back of your health and happiness. 

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Working in the wellbeing space, Cleo enjoys sharing her advice to help women feel more empowered in their bodies and lives. She also has a passion for camping and BBQs on the beach.