What causes long periods and what does it mean?

The usual length of menstruation is between four and eight days, with 4–5 days being the most common. However, every menstrual cycleis unique, and individual differences may cause the duration of periods to deviate. The average blood loss during menstruation is between 30 and 80 ml, equivalent to using approximately 6–16 period pads.

See: How to Calculate Your Menstrual Cycle

It’s important to remember that the menstrual cycle is highly variable and can change for harmless reasons. Factors such as stress, dietary changes, intense physical activity, or even new medications can influence the length and nature of your period.

However, prolonged bleeding can sometimes be related to:

• Hormonal imbalances,
• Use of contraceptives,
• Pregnancy.

These conditions are often accompanied by additional symptoms, such as:

• Painful cramps,
• Fatigue,
• Severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

If you notice changes in your menstrual cycle that you are unsure about, it’s always a good idea to see a doctor to identify if there are any underlying causes. Rarely in young women, there may be a serious case for the prolonged bleeding.

Long periods and hormonal imbalances

A longer than usual periods may result from imbalances in hormone production. but commonly no cause is found.

In such cases, a doctor may recommend tests, including hormone level assessments. Early diagnosis and treatment of hormonal conditions not only help restore a regular cycle but also prevent potential complications related to pregnancy or infertility. Additionally, prolonged menstrual cycles are often characteristic of adolescents, whose hormonal systems have not yet fully matured.

Prolonged menstrual bleeding and contraception

A period lasting longer than usual can result from the use of hormonal birth control pills or an intrauterine device (IUD). Although hormonal contraceptives generally shorten the duration and reduce the heaviness of bleeding, some women may experience long periods or intermenstrual bleeding especially when a new birth control pill is started. These symptoms typically resolve on their own after a few cycles as the body adjusts to the new hormone levels.

A copper IUD, which contains no hormones, may initially lead to heavier and more painful periods. This is due to its mechanical action, which irritates the uterine lining and intensifies its shedding during menstruation.

Period longer than usual — pregnancy

A longer than usual period may sometimes be a sign of an early miscarriage, which can resemble regular menstruation and may be challenging to distinguish. In these cases, bleeding is often:

• Heavier and lasts longer,
• Accompanied by more clots than during a typical period.

Additional symptoms might include:

• Severe pain in the lower abdomen, lower back, and breasts ie the feeling of an early pregnancy.

If the bleeding does not subside, a consultation with a gynaecologist or a general practitioner is essential.

Other causes of long periods

A longer than usual periods can have additional causes that may not necessarily indicate serious health issues but are still worth understanding to help you better recognise changes in your body. They include:

• Inflammatory conditions of the reproductive organs, such as pelvic infections— these are usually accompanied by other symptoms like pain or discomfort, which makes them easier to diagnose;
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome;
• Use of certain medications, such as anticoagulants;

However, it is important to emphasise that most of these causes can be effectively treated after consulting a doctor. Talking to a gynaecologist or a general practitioner can help alleviate concerns and identify the appropriate solution.

See also: Symptoms of an abnormal period

The treatment of prolonged menstruation depends on the underlying cause. which is why it is essential that you see your doctor as soon as possible to determine if you need to be referred to a gynaecologist.

A gynaecologist check-up could include taking a detailed medical history, including information about cycle regularity, the duration of menstruation, the amount of bleeding, the presence of clots, and any additional symptoms such as lower abdominal pain or weakness. Yoy may be examined, undergo a transvaginal ultrasound, and undergo blood tests.

Also, make sure to try these three stretching exercises for menstrual cramps