How can I cope with my heavy periods?
Other Qs & As
Since I started menstruating at 13, I have had heavy periods.
At first, they were irregular but I was told that that wasn't uncommon.
My periods last for eight days, most of which are extremely heavy.
I use the highest absorbency tampons, but even they do not seem suitable as I have to change them so often, especially during the first four or five days of my period.
I have a cycle of between 30 and 35 days but I just need advice about my periods, as they are starting to get me down.
I dread the first few days of my period and worry about wearing certain clothes and doing things.
Recently I have also noticed that my hands keep shaking. I don't know why or what is causing this. I would be most grateful if you could give me some advice.
Answer
I'm so glad that you have asked for advice about your periods, as I hope to be able to reassure you and also give some hints as to how you can be helped.
From what you have told me about your menstrual cycle, I do not think that there is anything dreadful going on with your hormones.
The length of your period is still within normal limits and eight days is not too unusual. I think you will find that you need to use both a tampon and a towel for extra security in the first few days of your period, as I have yet to find a tampon that can cope alone with a really heavy flow.
You should expect to change your tampon every two hours or so initially.
As you mention that these long and heavy periods are starting to get you down, why don't you go and have a chat with your doctor?
He or she could arrange a blood test to check the balance of your hormones, and who could also rule out anaemia due to loss of blood.
If you wanted to take some medication to try and reduce the length and heaviness of your periods, your GP might suggest either taking the combined contraceptive pill ('the Pill') or another medicine called 'tranexamic acid'. An anti-inflammatory medicine called mefenamic acid can also reduce the blood loss in heavy periods and there is also a hormone tablet called norethisterone that could help.
I hope you get things sorted out!
Yours sincerely
The Medical Team
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