Bleeding through clothing, missing activities, or feeling worn out during your period should not be something you simply endure. Davie ObGyn can help identify why your bleeding has changed and discuss ways to manage it.
When Is Bleeding Abnormal?
Understanding changes in your cycle
Abnormal uterine bleeding includes periods that are unusually heavy, prolonged, or irregular, as well as bleeding between periods. Bleeding after sex or after menopause also needs medical attention.
Possible causes include changes in ovulation, fibroids, polyps, medications, pregnancy-related problems, bleeding disorders, or changes in the uterine lining.
Common symptoms and red flags
Watch for:
- Bleeding that lasts longer than seven days.
- Needing to change menstrual products very often.
- Passing large clots or bleeding through clothes.
- Spotting between periods.
- Fatigue, weakness, or dizziness.
When to get urgent care: If you are soaking a pad or tampon every hour for more than two hours, seek prompt medical advice. Get emergency care if heavy bleeding is accompanied by faintness, chest pain, shortness of breath, or severe pain.
ACOG explains abnormal bleeding and emergency symptoms.
Why an in-person evaluation matters
Heavy bleeding can cause anemia, and its cause cannot be confirmed from the amount of blood alone. An exam, blood tests, and imaging can help distinguish a hormone-related problem from one that needs a different treatment.
Your Bleeding Evaluation
- Review your bleeding pattern: Include cycle dates, clots, medications, and pregnancy possibility.
- Check your health: An exam and blood count may help assess the effects of blood loss.
- Look for a cause: On-site ultrasound may identify fibroids, polyps, or other changes.
- Discuss additional testing: A sample of the uterine lining may be recommended based on age, risk factors, or persistent symptoms.
Not everyone needs the same tests.
Treatment Options for Heavy Bleeding
Depending on the cause, treatment may include:
- Iron replacement for iron deficiency.
- Hormonal birth control or a hormonal IUD.
- Nonhormonal medication, such as tranexamic acid, for suitable patients.
- Treatment of a thyroid problem or another underlying condition.
- Removal of a polyp or treatment of fibroids.
- Endometrial ablation or hysterectomy in selected cases.
Endometrial ablation is not appropriate for someone who wants a future pregnancy, and contraception is still needed afterward. Treatment choices should account for safety and pregnancy goals. Learn more from ACOG’s abnormal bleeding guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are heavy periods normal as I get older?
Cycles may change during perimenopause, but heavy or unusual bleeding should still be evaluated.
Can heavy periods make me tired?
Yes. Blood loss may lead to iron deficiency or anemia.
Is bleeding after menopause normal?
No. Even light spotting after menopause needs prompt evaluation.
Will I need a hysterectomy?
Not necessarily. Many causes of heavy bleeding have nonsurgical treatment options.
Support for Patients Across Broward County
At Davie ObGyn, you can discuss bleeding concerns with a board-certified physician and access on-site ultrasound when needed. We serve Davie, Cooper City, Weston, Plantation, and Pembroke Pines.
For an emergency, call 911. Not sure what you need? See our patient resource center.
Medically reviewed by Rahil Malik, MD, FACOG, board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist. Last reviewed: September 26, 2026. This page is general information and does not replace a visit with your doctor.