
How Do I Know When My Heavy Bleeding Is Abnormal?

Many women assume heavy, irregular, or painful periods are just something they have to manage. However, it's important to know that abnormal bleeding is often a sign of an underlying issue — a treatable one.
At Modern OBGYN Care in Pembroke Pines, Florida, board-certified OB/GYNs Dr. Miguel Torres and Dr. Marcela Torres provide compassionate, expert care to help Broward County women navigate menstrual health concerns in a comfortable, supportive environment.
Our team prioritizes patient education and personalized treatment, using the latest diagnostic tools and minimally invasive options to manage abnormal bleeding.
Understanding your body’s normal cycle is the first step in recognizing when something isn’t right. Read on to find out how to tell when your bleeding is abnormal.
Heavy periods: When is it too much?
Heavy menstrual bleeding, or menorrhagia, affects up to one-third of women and can lead to anemia, fatigue, and even dizziness.
Normal blood loss during a period is 60 milliliters (ml), and 80 ml or more is classified as abnormal bleeding. But most women don’t measure their flow in milliliters, so watch for these signs:
- Bleeding longer than a week
- Doubling up protection (like using a tampon with a pad)
- Disrupting sleep to change your tampon or pad
- Passing blood clots bigger than a quarter
- Changing tampons or pads hourly (or more often)
- Weakness, dizziness, or other signs of anemia
For many women, heavy bleeding is just one of the issues. It’s often quite painful, adding to the frustration.
Menstrual cycle length: What's normal?
A normal menstrual cycle is 21-35 days in adult women. In young teens, cycles are still normal if they’re up to 45 days apart, but periods usually stabilize within several years.
If your cycle is shorter or longer, it's a sign that you could have a menstruation issue requiring treatment. Similarly, if your cycle is unpredictable, varying by a week or more, seeking help can determine whether an underlying health problem is at play.
Finding the cause of abnormal bleeding
Abnormal bleeding may be related to many women's health problems, including uterine fibroids, polyps, hormone imbalances, endometriosis, or even perimenopause (the transition period into menopause.)
To determine what’s behind your symptoms, our doctors start with a comprehensive medical history review and assessment of your current gynecological health.
Your input is crucial when detecting the cause of abnormal bleeding. It's helpful if you track your cycle using a phone app or notebook. This information can help us determine the right starting place for your testing and treatment plan.
At Modern OBGYN Care, we use advanced diagnostic tools and minimally invasive treatments to help you find answers and relief.
Help with abnormal bleeding in Pembroke Pines
Your period shouldn’t control your life. If your bleeding disrupts work, school, sleep, or your favorite activities, it’s time to seek medical advice.
At Modern OBGYN Care, our empathetic providers are ready to tackle your symptoms and help you find effective relief. Whether you need hormone therapy, minimally invasive procedures, or a simple lifestyle adjustment, we’re here to help. Call our office at 754-217-4181
to schedule an appointment and take control of your menstrual health.
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