How to treat heavy periods?

Having heavy periods is a common experience for many women.

When menstrual flow becomes excessively heavy or lasts more than 7 days, it is called menorrhagia . This phenomenon is not only uncomfortable: it can impact daily life, cause chronic fatigue and sometimes reveal an underlying health problem.

So, how can you recognize heavy periods and, above all, what are the natural and medical solutions to treat them?

What are heavy periods?

Periods are considered heavy when they result in blood loss greater than 80 ml per cycle or when they require changing protection every 1 to 2 hours.

Signs that should alert you

- Need to wear double protection (tampon + towel)

- Frequent nighttime awakenings due to flow

- Large blood clots

- Unusual fatigue, linked to possible anemia

- Period duration exceeding 7 days

If you recognize yourself in several of these symptoms, it is important not to trivialize them and to talk about it with a health professional.

What are the possible causes of heavy periods?

The causes of menorrhagia are varied and often depend on age, medical history, and lifestyle.

Hormonal imbalances

Excessive production of estrogen relative to progesterone can lead to thickening of the endometrium and therefore heavier periods. This type of imbalance is common in adolescent girls at the beginning of their cycle or in perimenopausal women.

Gynecological pathologies

Uterine fibroids : small benign tumors of the uterus, often responsible for heavy bleeding.

Polyps : Growths in the uterus that can disrupt flow.

Endometriosis and adenomyosis : painful gynecological diseases often associated with heavy periods.

Other factors

A copper IUD can increase the flow. Certain clotting disorders or taking blood thinning medications should also be considered. Finally, chronic stress , lack of sleep, or general fatigue can exacerbate symptoms.

To understand if your pain and flow are related to endometriosis, read our article on the symptoms of painful periods.

What are the risks associated with heavy periods?

Excessive menstruation isn't just about everyday discomfort. It can cause:

Iron deficiency anemia : due to excessive iron loss.

Chronic fatigue : accentuated by blood loss, it can impact concentration and morale.

Social isolation : Fear of leaks pushes some women to limit their professional, social or sporting activities.

How to treat heavy periods?

1. Medical solutions

Medical monitoring is essential. Depending on the cause of menorrhagia, several solutions may be offered:

Antifibrinolytic drugs (e.g. tranexamic acid) to reduce flow.

Hormonal contraceptives (pill, hormonal IUD) which regulate the cycle and limit losses.

Surgery for large fibroids or severe adenomyosis.

To learn more about drug treatments and their alternatives, see our article on medications and painful periods

2. Natural solutions

For women who wish to supplement or limit their medication intake, there are gentle and effective approaches.

Anti-inflammatory diet

A diet rich in red fruits, green vegetables, oily fish, flax seeds, and turmeric helps reduce inflammation and regulate your cycle. At the same time, avoid ultra-processed, overly sweet, or overly salty foods, which increase water retention and fatigue.

Plants and infusions

Nettle : rich in iron, it helps compensate for blood loss.

Yarrow : Known to regulate excessive bleeding.

Chamomile and lemon balm : soothing, they also calm cramps linked to heavy flow.

Discover our complete guide on which teas and herbal teas to drink during your period

Natural anti-inflammatory patches

Madame patches – painful periods do not directly reduce flow, but they effectively relieve pain thanks to the transdermal diffusion of natural active ingredients such as CBD, turmeric or mint.

3. Hygiene of life and gentle practices

Adopting a healthy lifestyle can make a difference in the intensity of the cycle:

Yoga and meditation : by reducing stress and promoting abdominal breathing, these practices help you better cope with heavy periods.

Regular physical activity : walking, swimming or practicing a gentle sport helps improve blood circulation and balance hormones.

Rest : Taking time to rest is essential to compensate for the fatigue associated with heavy discharge. Not listening to your body can increase the pain and duration of your period.

When to see a doctor?

Certain situations require rapid medical advice:

Periods that last more than 10 days

Flow so heavy that it causes dizziness

Sudden onset of heavy periods when they were previously normal

Severe and disabling pelvic pain

An accurate diagnosis makes it possible to rule out a more serious pathology and find appropriate treatment.

FAQ – How to treat heavy periods?

Is it normal to have heavy periods after a copper IUD?

Yes, this is a common side effect. However, if the discharge becomes disabling, it is advisable to discuss it with a gynecologist.

What herbs can reduce heavy periods?

Yarrow and nettle are the most commonly used herbs. They can be consumed as an infusion or as supplements.

Can Madame patches help?

Yes, they don't directly affect flow, but they do effectively relieve pain and are part of a comprehensive approach to menstrual well-being.