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Clots bigger than a grape? Soaking through a pad or tampon in under 2 hours? Pelvic pain that stops you in your tracks?
Sometimes, it’s not just a period. Now is your time to speak up!
If your periods are affecting your daily life, it's time to take action. Understanding the signs and symptoms of potential issues can help you take control of your health.
Book an appointment today!
Understanding your period
Painful periods
Period pain isn't just an inconvenience, it can be a sign of an underlying issue. Some discomfort is common, but if your pain is severe or stops you from carrying out daily activities, it might be a sign of a medical condition like endometriosis or adenomyosis. Use our pain scale to assess your level of discomfort and find out when to seek professional help.
It is important to seek medical care for any level of pain that significantly impacts daily life. However, it’s recommended to consult a doctor for pain rated above 5 or described as intense. If pain is rated 8/10 or higher and considered severe or very intense, an urgent medical consultation is advised.
Heavy periods
Losing more blood than expected during your period? If you're soaking through pads or tampons in under 2 hours, passing large clots (similar to the size of a grape), or experiencing fatigue, you might be dealing with abnormally heavy menstrual bleeding. Watch our Period Blood video for more information:
Clots
Most people who menstruate will experience menstrual clots at some point. These gel-like clumps of coagulated blood and uterine tissue are expelled during menstruation. They resemble stewed strawberries and vary in colour from bright to dark red. Blood clots during menstruation can be normal, but larger clots (bigger than a grape) or frequent clotting might indicate an underlying issue.
Common menstrual conditions
Irregular periods (Oligomenorrhoea & Polymenorrhoea)
A typical menstrual cycle lasts between 21 and 35 days. Significant changes in cycle length could be a sign of hormonal imbalances, thyroid issues, or conditions like PCOS. Tracking your cycle can help you identify irregularities, such as unusually long or short periods, so you can seek the right medical support.
PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome)
Mood swings, bloating, headaches, food cravings; PMS affects many people, but for some, it can be debilitating. If PMS is interfering with your work, relationships, or mental health, there are strategies and treatments available to help manage it.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it, causing severe pain, heavy periods and even fertility issues. It's often underdiagnosed, but early detection and treatment can make a significant difference.
Adenomyosis
Similar to endometriosis, adenomyosis happens when the uterine lining grows into the muscle of the uterus, leading to intense pain, heavy bleeding, and bloating. It’s a condition that can be overlooked, but there are ways to manage and treat it effectively.
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that can cause irregular periods, acne, excessive hair growth, weight gain and ovarian cysts. It can also affect fertility and long-term health. If you suspect you have PCOS, there are lifestyle changes and treatments that can help balance your hormones and improve your symptoms.
When to see a doctor
Not sure if what you're experiencing is normal? Here are some signs that it's time to see a healthcare professional:
- Your period pain is severe and affects your daily life.
- You experience heavy bleeding that lasts more than seven days.
- You pass large blood clots frequently.
- Your menstrual cycle is irregular or unpredictable.
- You have symptoms of PMS that interfere with daily activities.
- You suspect conditions like endometriosis, adenomyosis, or PCOS.
Your period shouldn't control your life. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, don't take it lying down. Book an appointment with us today.
This health promotion initiative has been supported with an educational grant from Bayer Australia Ltd
Where to find us:
SHV Box Hill
901 Whitehorse Road Box Hill VIC Australia 3128 Google map directions
Tel: 03 9257 0100 or free call 1800 013 952 Clinic hours: Mon-Fri, 9 am-5 pm Appointments: Call 03 9257 0100 or book online.
SHV Melbourne CBD
Level 1, 94 Elizabeth Street Melbourne VIC Australia 3000 Google map directions
Tel: 03 9660 4700 or free call 1800 013 952 Clinic hours: Mon-Fri, 9 am-5 pm Appointments: Call 03 9660 4700 or book online.
