Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
Heavy menstrual bleeding is not something you have to accept as normal.
You may have grown up hearing that heavy periods run in the family, that other women experience the same thing, or that the bleeding will settle in a few days. Heavy menstrual bleeding may be common, but it should not be dismissed when it affects your health or your life.
01
Common does not mean you have to live with it
Heavy periods are often overlooked because they have always been part of someone's life, or because a mother, sister or friend experienced the same thing. Over time, managing the bleeding can begin to feel normal, even when it is disrupting school, work, sleep, exercise or social plans.
There is no single experience of heavy menstrual bleeding. What matters is the amount and duration of bleeding, related symptoms, and the effect on your health and daily life.
Signs may include:
- 01
changing period products every one to two hours
- 02
needing to change period products during the night
- 03
bleeding through clothing or bedding
- 04
passing large blood clots
- 05
bleeding that lasts longer than eight days
- 06
planning work, exercise or social activities around your period
- 07
feeling tired, dizzy, short of breath or unusually weak
- 08
lower abdominal pain or cramping
Heavy bleeding can contribute to iron deficiency and anaemia, so symptoms such as fatigue and dizziness should also be discussed with your doctor.
02
Your appointment for heavy periods
Begin with what has changed, and how it is affecting you.
Your doctor may ask about the timing and length of your periods, how often you change period products, clotting, pain, bleeding between periods and other changes to your cycle. The conversation may also include medication, contraception, pregnancy plans, previous treatment and your wider medical history.
A physical examination may be discussed if it is clinically appropriate. You can ask questions, understand why an examination is being considered and provide or withhold consent.
Depending on your circumstances, the next step may include blood tests, imaging, medication, review over time or referral to another health professional.
If available, bring the dates of recent periods, a list of current medicines and supplements, and any previous scan, pathology or specialist reports. Notes about the products you use and how often you change them can also be helpful. You do not need to track your bleeding before making an appointment.
03
Understanding what may be contributing
Heavy menstrual bleeding can be associated with hormonal changes, fibroids, adenomyosis, endometriosis, uterine polyps, some medications and bleeding disorders. In some cases, no single cause is identified.
Assessment helps determine what should be investigated and which treatment options may be appropriate for you.
04
Care shaped around your health and priorities
Treatment depends on the possible cause, the severity of the bleeding, related symptoms, your medical history and whether you may want to become pregnant in the future.
Options may include non-hormonal medication, hormonal treatment, management of iron deficiency or referral for specialist assessment and procedures. Your doctor will discuss the options relevant to your circumstances, including their potential benefits and risks.
Related care
Related care at Mahila
Pelvic PainCare for persistent, recurring or unexplained pain affecting the pelvis, lower abdomen or daily life.Read more
EndometriosisOngoing care for suspected or diagnosed endometriosis, from investigation and symptom management to coordinated support.Read more
PCOSSupport for symptoms associated with polycystic ovary syndrome, including cycles, hormones and metabolic health.Read more
PerimenopauseAssessment and support for changes in periods, sleep, mood, temperature, concentration, energy and more.Read more
ContraceptionIndividual advice about contraceptive options based on your health, preferences and stage of life.Read more
Appointment length
Choose the appointment type that matches where you are in your care. Exact fees follow the medical consultation fee schedule unless a service page states a different confirmed fee.
New patients
45-minute consultation
Returning patients (follow-up)
Up to 20 minutes. If the consultation runs longer, an additional fee may be charged.
Medical consultation fees are listed below. Confirm appointment and fee details with reception when booking.
Medical consultation fees
Mahila Women's Clinic is a private billing practice. The following medical consultation fees apply unless a service page states a different confirmed fee.
A Medicare rebate may apply to an eligible medical consultation. The item billed depends on the service provided, the actual consultation time, the clinician and Medicare requirements.
Procedures, pathology, imaging, products, equipment and other services may involve additional costs. Relevant additional fees should be shown on the individual service page or discussed before the service is provided.
| Consultation length | Clinic fee |
|---|---|
| Less than 20 minutes | $150 |
| Up to 30 minutes | $280 |
| Up to 45 minutes | $380 |
| 60 minutes or longer | $450 |
Talk with a doctor about your concerns.
Book an appointment at Mahila Women's Clinic in Camberwell.