How do I know if my heavy periods are actually a medical condition?

Complete this quiz. If you answer "always" or "sometimes" to any of the questions below (especially if you are over 35 years old), make an appointment to see your doctor. You may have menorrhagia or a different condition that needs attention.

Diagnostic Quiz

Do you often wear a tampon and a pad for double protection?
Always Sometimes Never
Does your bleeding last longer than 7 days?
Always Sometimes Never
Does heavy bleeding affect your social, athletic, or sexual activities?
Always Sometimes Never
Does heavy bleeding ever cause you to miss work?
Always Sometimes Never
Do you worry about having bleeding accidents during your cycle?
Always Sometimes Never
Do you ever avoid traveling or leaving home because of heavy bleeding?
Always Sometimes Never
Do you carry a change of clothes with you due to heavy bleeding?
Always Sometimes Never
Do you have to change your tampon or pad more than every 2 hours?
Always Sometimes Never
Do you have a family history of bleeding problems?
Yes No
Do you pass blood clots (bigger than a nickel)?
Always Sometimes Never

Print out this quiz and give it to your doctor.

Explore this site to find out about treatment options for your heavy periods.

PRINTABLE VERSION

The content of this website has been reviewed by an advisory board of physicians that includes: Ted L. Anderson, MD, PhD, FACOG; John D. Bertrand, MD, FACOG; Maria M. Gilpin, MD, FACOG; Christian S. Pope, DO; Thomas F. Purdon, MD, FACOG; Ellen E. Sheets, MD, FACOG, and Dr. Danee S. Young, MD, CEO, FACOG.