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Let’s Talk About: Heavy Periods
- Colette
- Aug 20
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 22
What Are Heavy Periods?
Heavy periods (also known as menorrhagia - men-uh-RAY-jee-uh) are more than just “a heavier flow.” They can affect your energy, confidence, and day-to-day life especially if you’re constantly worried about leaking, changing pads every hour, or feeling completely drained.
Every period is different, but a heavy period is one that feels like it’s too much for your body to manage comfortably. And while heavy periods are common, that doesn’t mean they’re normal - especially if they interfere with school, sports, sleep, or your mental health - this is not normal and you shouldn't have to just accept that it is!
Signs of Heavy Periods
So, how do you know if your period is heavier than it should be? Here are some signs to look out for:
Soaking through a pad or tampon every 1–2 hours, especially for several hours in a row
Needing to use two types of protection at once (e.g. pad + tampon) just to feel secure
Flooding or leaking through clothes or bedding, even with regular changes
Passing large blood clots (bigger than a 10 cent coin or a €1 coin)
Periods that last longer than 7 days
Feeling tired, dizzy, or lightheaded, especially during or after your period
Skipping school, sports, or social events because of your period
Struggling to sleep through the night because of bleeding or pain
These signs might come and go, or they might happen every cycle. Either way, if your period is making life harder, it’s time to talk to someone.
What You Can Do
You don’t need to suffer in silence. Heavy periods are treatable and manageable, but the first step is knowing they’re not something you just have to “just put up with.”
1. Track Your Periods
Start writing down:
When your period starts and ends
How often you change pads/tampons
How heavy the bleeding is
Any clots, leaks, or pain
How it affects your daily life
This will help spot patterns and it’s really helpful to bring to a doctor if you need to.
2. Talk to Someone
It might feel awkward, but talking to a parent, carer, teacher, or doctor can be a huge relief. Bring your notes or tracker with you to help explain what’s going on.
You can say something like: “I think my periods might be heavier than normal. I’m changing my pad every hour, and I’m really tired around that time of the month. Can we talk about it?”
3. Know Your Options
There are lots of ways to manage heavy periods:
Nutritional and lifestyle support (especially for energy and iron levels), this is where working with a qualified professional is of huge benefit. Working with someone will offer you support and guidance and teach you habits to put in place.
Period products designed for heavy flow
Medical treatments like iron supplements, the pill, or other options your doctor can discuss with you - just make sure you are well informed and know the risks associated with any treatment prior to commencement.
4. Be Kind to Yourself
If your period is affecting your sleep, mood, energy, or confidence, that matters. Give yourself rest, support, and understanding, not guilt or shame. Let your friends know what's going on. Good friends will have your back... and an extra pad or tampon when you need one too!
You deserve a period that doesn’t hold you back. If your flow feels too heavy, you’re not overreacting and you’re not alone. Download our free period tracker template below or use an app or diary to record all of your symptoms. We're also here to help through nutritional support, guidance or just sound advice so please reach out;
Heavy periods are common, treatable, and nothing to be embarrassed about.
✨ Awareness is power. Support is available. You’re allowed to ask for help. ✨
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