Is Heavy Bleeding Disrupting Your Life? Here Are 5 Symptoms to Watch For and When to Seek Help

By: Kiara Burroughs

One of the most challenging symptoms faced by those with uterine fibroids is heavy bleeding—often creeping up subtly as each cycle becomes heavier. Over time, you might find you have adjusted to the changes without fully realizing just how much it is impacting your life. Staying attuned to your body and paying close attention to your monthly cycle can help you spot early signs of heavy bleeding. In this month’s blog, we break down the top five warning signs to watch out for.

1. Frequent Tampon or Pad Changes

Have you noticed that you are running to the restroom every 1-2 hours to change a pad or tampon? OBGYNs often ask how frequently you are changing these products, as it can signal abnormally heavy bleeding. Periods can fluctuate, but a consistent need for extra and higher absorption products or trips to the restroom, could mean it is time to consult your doctor.

2. Bleeding Through Your Clothes or Bed Sheets

Ugh! This is a tough one. We've all been there—those frustrating moments when leaks happen, despite our best efforts. But for people with fibroids, bleeding through clothes or bedding can become a common, uncomfortable, and traumatic reality. If you are regularly waking up to soiled sheets or needing to change clothes due to bleeding, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider. This could be a sign that your menstrual products are unable to keep up with your flow, which may be due to fibroids.

3. Feeling Tired or Shortness of Breath

If you are experiencing frequent fatigue or breathlessness, it might be more than just a hectic schedule. According to the Mayo Clinic, “Anemia is a problem of not having enough healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin to carry oxygen to the body's tissues. Hemoglobin is a protein found in red cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to all other organs in the body. Having anemia can cause tiredness, weakness and shortness of breath.” If your energy is low or you find day-to-day activities becoming more difficult, consider having your doctor check for iron-deficiency anemia, a common issue for people with fibroids.

4. Passing Large Blood Clots

Some clotting during your period is normal, but passing large clots—especially those larger than a quarter—can be a sign of heavy bleeding due to fibroids. If this is happening frequently, it is a good idea to document your symptoms and talk to your doctor.

5. Menstrual Periods Lasting Longer than 7 Days

I have heard many stories of fibroid patients bleeding for days, weeks, and sometimes months on end. According to the CDC, “finding out if a woman has heavy menstrual bleeding often is not easy, because each person might think of "heavy bleeding" in a different way. Usually, menstrual bleeding lasts about 4 to 5 days and the amount of blood lost is small (2 to 3 tablespoons). However, women who have heavy menstrual bleeding usually bleed for more than 7 days and lose twice as much blood.” Each woman’s menstrual cycle and length are different and it’s important to track yours to define your norm and know when it is starting to surpass your average number of days.

Heavy bleeding can be one of the most physically and emotionally challenging aspects of living with fibroids. It’s not uncommon for it to feel embarrassed, isolated, or experience shifts that impact your daily life. If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, consider reaching out to your healthcare provider. Early conversations can help you take charge of your health, minimize symptoms, and explore resources for managing fibroids. Explore our website for more information on fibroid symptoms and support resources—you do not have to navigate this journey alone!

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anemia/symptoms-causes/syc-20351360

https://www.cdc.gov/female-blood-disorders/about/heavy-menstrual-bleeding.html