Heavy periods are common, but like period pain, many women simply put up with them, thinking it’s normal and nothing can be done. Chinese medicine, natural treatments, and lifestyle approaches can help reduce excessive bleeding, restore balance, and improve your quality of life.

How Do You Know if Your Periods Are “Heavy”? 

Medically, heavy menstrual bleeding is often defined as blood loss of 80mL or more per cycle, or periods lasting longer than 7–8 days. Another way to assess is by how much your period impacts your day-to-day life.

You may have heavy periods if:

~ You change a pad or tampon every hour or less

~ Your bleeding isn’t contained by the largest size pad or tampon

~ You need to change your pad overnight

~ There are clots larger than a 50c piece

~ You feel overwhelmed and find it difficult to manage daily activities

Common Causes of Heavy Menstrual Bleeding 

Heavy periods may be linked to conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, polyps, PCOS, or hormonal imbalance. In many cases, an obvious cause is never identified; this is often referred to as dysfunctional uterine bleeding. Bleeding can become heavier during perimenopause.

Heavy Periods During Perimenopause

Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading up to menopause, typically starting in your 40s, though it can begin earlier for some. During this time, hormonal fluctuations—especially in oestrogen and progesterone—can cause changes in menstrual cycles.

Many women notice their periods become heavier, longer, or more irregular. Some cycles may be very close together, while others are spaced far apart. These changes are usually normal, but they can also be exhausting and disruptive to daily life.

Health Impacts of Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

Whatever the cause, excessive blood loss can leave you feeling weak, fatigued, or low in iron. Heavy bleeding may also cause stress, anxiety, and interfere with work or daily life. Addressing heavy periods is about both physical health and quality of life.

How Chinese medicine Can Help 

In Chinese medicine, we assess signs, symptoms, physical cues, stress, and lifestyle factors as a whole to understand the underlying imbalances. Treatment may include:

• Acupuncture to regulate blood flow, restore harmony and boost your energy
• Chinese herbal medicine tailored to your individual pattern
• Lifestyle and dietary guidance to support hormonal balance and overall health

This holistic approach can help make periods manageable, pain-free, and regular, even during perimenopause.

✨ Don’t suffer with heavy bleeding any longer—Chinese medicine is a safe, natural way to restore balance and support your vitality.