Is your period heavier than it should be? Here's how to tell.

Thanks to our brand partner, BAYER AUSTRALIA LTD

If your monthly cycle has you wondering "is this normal?", you're far from alone — and it's worth paying attention to what your body is telling you.

Around one in four women of reproductive age may be affected by heavy periods, a condition doctors refer to as heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB).

While period chat is often dismissed, HMB is recognised by medical professionals as a genuine health issue — one that can seriously affect your daily life, from your energy levels at work to maintaining a social life and looking after your overall wellbeing.

It's completely understandable to feel uncertain or even hesitant about seeking help for period concerns — especially given how private and personal these experiences can be. But when it comes to your health, guessing isn't the answer.

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Only a qualified healthcare professional can properly assess and diagnose menstrual concerns. They have the expertise to evaluate your symptoms, perform any necessary tests, rule out other conditions and guide you towards solutions that are tailored to your needs and preferences.

So, how heavy is too heavy? And when should you ask for advice? Let's take a look at some signs that suggest your period flow may be heavier than what's seen as typical, plus why seeking professional support matters.

1. You're changing pads or tampons every one to two hours.

Needing to switch out a pad, tampon or period undies more than every one to two hours, especially for several hours in a row, might be a sign of an above-average flow.

If you sometimes double up (for example, using both a tampon and a pad together) or if you've ever had to improvise with extra protection just to make it through the day, this could be a red flag.

2. You need to change period products overnight.

Is your sleep getting interrupted because you need to get up to change a pad? Bleeding through one at night or needing extra protection to prevent leaks is another sign that your flow could be heavier than normal.

3. Bleeding soaks through your clothes or bedding.

Unexpected leaks that soak through your clothes, bedding or furniture shouldn't be something anyone has to just put up with. This is another sign that your flow may be heavier than a typical period.

4. Your period lasts longer than eight days.

Most periods last between three and seven days. If your bleeding lasts more than eight days or your cycle consistently drags on, it could be a sign of heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB). While period length can vary from person to person, anything that lingers this long is worth checking with a healthcare professional.

5. It's interfering with your daily life.

If you've ever missed work, cancelled plans or felt like you can't leave the house at certain times in your cycle — this isn't something you should simply "put up with". HMB may impact some people's daily routines. Tracking your symptoms may help inform discussions with a healthcare professional.

6. You're passing large blood clots.

Seeing blood clots larger than a 50-cent coin can be a sign of heavy bleeding. While small clots are common during many periods, large or frequent clots may mean your body isn't able to keep up with how quickly it's losing blood.

7. You have low iron or feel tired and dizzy.

In some cases, frequent or heavy bleeding may contribute to low iron levels or anaemia. If you're feeling unusually tired or dizzy, it's important to speak to a healthcare professional.

Despite how common HMB is, many people feel unsure if their experience "counts" or is worthy of a conversation with a doctor — especially when talking about periods is still seen as taboo.

Menstrual health is an important part of overall wellbeing, and by sharing experiences and talking openly, we can foster a supportive community and encourage women to speak with a healthcare professional if they have concerns.

There may be ways to manage HMB depending on your health needs.

A range of treatment options are available, tailored to individual needs, personal health and future fertility plans. Management approaches may include medication, lifestyle changes or where appropriate, other procedures or devices as recommended by your healthcare professional. A qualified healthcare professional can help assess what approach is most suitable for you.

If you've recognised any of these signs, start tracking them — note how often and how long you're changing products, how many days you bleed and how your period impacts your life. Bring this information to your healthcare professional. If these signs sound familiar, consider discussing them with your doctor.

Take the first step in exploring support options — visit Bayer Australia's website to take their period survey.

Always read the label and follow directions for use.

This information does not replace advice from your doctor. Consult with your doctor if you have concerns or questions about heavy menstrual bleeding.

Feature Image: Getty.

This article is sponsored by Bayer Australia Ltd. It is intended for general information and awareness purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and does not constitute medical or other professional advice.

Bayer supports improving awareness around menstrual health. Should you have any questions or concerns, please discuss these with your doctor.

Bayer Australia Ltd. ABN 22 000 138 714, 875 Pacific Highway, Pymble NSW 2073. ®Registered Trademark of the Bayer Group, Germany. CF: PP-UN-WHC-AU-0018-1. Date of preparation: September 2025.