When is Menstrual Bleeding Considered Abnormal?

Menstrual periods vary from woman to woman; what is normal for one woman might be highly unusual for someone else. This can make it hard to know what’s okay and what isn’t.  It is important to pay attention to your body and get checked out if anything is weird. 

At Lake Havasu OB/GYN Care, Dr. Kevin Hooker is a knowledgeable and caring OB/GYN who is always available to answer all your questions. Dr. Booker takes the time to understand what you are experiencing, provides you with a thorough exam and diagnostic testing, along with treatment options to alleviate your symptoms. 

When is menstrual bleeding considered abnormal?

It is important to pay attention to your body and know what’s normal for you. If you notice anything unusual, take the time to talk to a doctor and get a medical exam. There are a few common signs that might be warning you that something might be wrong.

Intensely heavy bleeding

During your period, you may have some heavy bleeding, but how do you know when it’s too much? If you are soaking through a pad or tampon in an hour for two straight hours or more, you should seek medical attention. If your period causes bleeding for over a week, that could be a sign of a more serious problem.

Bleeding between periods

If you are experiencing regular bleeding between periods, make an appointment with your doctor to get it checked out. If the bleeding is accompanied by abdominal pain or a fever, this could be a sign of a more serious condition. 

Bleeding after menopause

If you have already completely gone through menopause (no periods for one year) and then you start bleeding again, it could be a cause for concern. Make an appointment with your doctor for an exam to check for serious medical issues. 

Blood clots

Some clotting of menstrual blood is normal, but if you are frequently passing clots that are larger than the size of a quarter, this could be a sign of a more significant medical condition. Discuss any concerns with your doctor. 

Restricting activity

If your menstrual bleeding is so overwhelming that you feel you need to severely restrict your activities while you are having your period, you may want to seek help. Talk to your doctor about treatment options for making your period more manageable. 

Every woman has a slightly different experience during her period. This can make it hard to know what is normal and what is a sign that something might be wrong. If you have any concerns, make an appointment with Dr. Kevin Hooker to get it checked out. 

To make an appointment with Dr. Kevin Hooker at Lake Havasu OB/GYN Care, call our office, or use our handy online booking tool to find an appointment time that’s convenient for you.