Heavy and Long Period, Normal or Not? - Women's Health Message Board

hollandlop · 03-11-2006, 04:08 PM

My periods are heavy. I use super long pads and need to change it every 2 hours or it will leak. My period is heavy for at least 4 days and my period lasts around 8 days before I'm totally clean. Is this normal or should I be concerned?

sunnydaze1 · 03-11-2006, 05:46 PM

A few questions...do you have regular yearly checkups from a gynecologist? Are you in your 30's or 40's?

Many times, periods can change due to hormonal imbalances; polyps; endometriosis; or being perimenopausal or all of the above!

Don't fret too much, I'm in the same boat at age 50 and can't wait for menopause. I've had two D&C's to remove polyps plus I have an elarged uterus full of fibroids within the wall.

So my advice would be to get an exam and go from there. If you're not bleeding all month long, then chances are it's just one of a number of things that happen during the years we have our periods.

hollandlop · 03-11-2006, 05:56 PM

I got a checkup last year and the gyn didn't say anything. I just don't know if other females experience this too or there is something wrong with my menstrual system?

sunnydaze1 · 03-11-2006, 10:44 PM

Yes, I think we all experience this from time to time. Thing is, if it's becoming more of a problem for you every month more than it ever has been...then I'd call your doctor. Doesn't mean anything is seriously wrong, just those things like hormones and polyps or whatever can make your periods worse and there are some treatments for them. To be honest, if I can go two hours with one pad on my heavy days, I'm lucky! But again, I'm nearing the change..I hope!