Are your Periods Heavy?
Heavy periods can sometimes be a sign of an underlying bleeding disorder such as Von Willebrand Disease (VWD). Learn what a heavy period is, how to tell if your period is normal, and what steps you can take if you think there may be an underlying cause.
What is a “heavy period”?
Many women have heavy periods, known as menorrhagia, but often consider their heavy periods “normal”. If you recognise one or more of these symptoms, your period may be considered heavy.
Your period may be heavy if you experience any of these
- Bleeding longer than 7 days
- Soaking through a pad or tampon every 1–2 hours
- Needing to use double protection, such as a tampon and a sanitary pad
- Passing large clots, for example 2–3 cm in size
- Waking at night to change your tampon or sanitary pad
- Bleeding through your clothes or bedding
- Feeling tired or short of breath, which can be symptoms of anaemia
- Avoiding daily activities such as school, work or exercise because of your period
If any of this sounds familiar, it is worth speaking up
If you said “Yes” to any of the above, consult your GP or primary care physician. You may benefit from treatment for your heavy period.
Could it be Von Willebrand Disease?
Sometimes, heavy periods are the result of an underlying bleeding disorder such as Von Willebrand Disease (VWD). If you have experienced any of the symptoms below alongside heavy periods, it may be worth speaking to your GP or primary care physician to discuss whether there could be an underlying cause.
Bleeding symptoms that may fit a wider picture
- Heavy periods since your first period
- Frequent nosebleeds
- Easy bruising
- Prolonged bleeding after cuts
Bleeding that lasts longer than expected
- Prolonged bleeding after dental treatment
- Prolonged bleeding after surgery
- Prolonged bleeding after childbirth
- Often feeling tired or being told you have low iron or anaemia
Family patterns can matter too
- Family members with a history of heavy bleeding
- Family members diagnosed with a bleeding disorder
- Symptoms across different life stages
- Repeated concerns that have never been fully explained
Important to remember
Having one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean you have Von Willebrand Disease, but it may be worth speaking to your GP or healthcare professional.
What is Von Willebrand Disease?
Von Willebrand Disease is the most common inherited bleeding disorder. It affects how the blood clots, which can lead to easy bruising and prolonged bleeding. If you would like to learn more, visit the What is VWD page.
What to do if you think your periods aren’t normal
If your periods feel unusually heavy, painful or difficult to manage, it is worth speaking to your GP or primary care physician. The first step is to start paying closer attention to your symptoms. Keeping a simple record of your periods and other related symptoms can help you spot patterns, understand what is normal for you, and make it easier to explain your symptoms at an appointment.
Track your symptoms
Keep a record of the symptoms listed above. You could also use a period diary app such as joii.
Speak to your GP
Book an appointment with your GP or primary care physician and explain clearly how your periods affect your daily life.
Ask about blood tests
Ask about tests to check for iron deficiency and anaemia, as well as possible signs of an underlying bleeding disorder such as Von Willebrand Disease.
Ask about specialist referral
Ask whether a referral to a haematologist or haemophilia treatment centre would be appropriate. These centres support all bleeding disorders, not just haemophilia.
You do not have to manage heavy periods alone
Living with heavy periods can feel isolating, especially if you have spent years being told your symptoms are “normal” or “just part of being a woman”. Support is available and you do not have to manage heavy periods alone.
Join the growing VWD community
If you have not already, join the growing Von Willebrand Disease community at VWD Alliance, where you can find support from others going through similar lived experiences and receive practical advice and education through regular email newsletters.
Discover Period Points
Period Points is a Scunthorpe-based community initiative supporting people who need access to period products, practical support and education around menstrual health. Their work focuses on reducing period poverty, improving access to essential sanitary products, and helping people feel more informed and supported when managing their periods.
Better understanding can lead to better care.
Knowing what is normal, recognising symptoms early, and asking the right questions can make it easier to get support. Whether you are looking for guidance, reassurance, or community, there are organisations ready to help.
