The onset of the menstrual cycle is a major milestone in many teenagers’ lives. But when the bleeding starts feeling heavy, lasts longer than expected, and leaves you feeling extremely tired, you don’t understand if it is normal or not, but it can quickly become stressful. Heavy periods in teens are more common than most people realise. In the initial years, the body is still adjusting to the new hormonal changes, which can make periods irregular, unpredictable, and at times, heavier than expected. The majority of the time, this is a part of growing, but in some cases, heavy periods in teens may point towards a serious problem that needs medical attention.
In this blog, we are going to answer common questions, such as whether heavy bleeding is normal in teenagers, and discuss its common causes and treatments.
What Is Considered a Heavy Period in Teens?
Menorrhagia is the medical term for heavy periods. In the first few years, heavy menstrual bleeding in adoloscents in considered normal, but that is not to say it should be ignored if the bleeding starts interfering with school, sports, or daily lives. Some signs of heavy periods are:
- Needing a change of pad or tampon every 2 to 3 hours
- The duration of your one cycle lasts longer than 7 days
- Passes blood clots that are quarter-size or larger
- Feels dizzy, weak, or extremely tired during periods
- Needs to wake up at night to change pads
Are Hormones the Main Cause?
Yes, in most teenage girls, the cause of heavy periods is usually hormonal imbalance. A girl’s body goes through multiple hormonal changes in the first two to three years after periods start. During some cycles, ovulation may not happen, which causes a hormone called progesterone, responsible for maintaining the uterus lining, to not be produced properly. This causes the uterine lining to build up more than usual and causes heavy bleeding when the period starts.
Hormonal imbalance in teenage girls can cause:
- Irregular cycles
- Skipped periods
- Heavy bleeding
- Longer duration
When could it be a Bleeding Disorder?
In some rare cases, constant heavy bleeding can be an indicator of a bleeding disorder. Bleeding disorders are conditions where blood cannot clot properly, which results in excessive, prolonged bleeding or bruising. Although less common, it is important to identify the signs early to get proper medical treatment. Common signs of a bleeding disorder are:
- Menstrual bleeding lasting longer than seven days
- Easily getting bruised without any known injury
- Prolonged bleeding even from minor cuts
- Family history of bleeding disorders
- Frequent nosebleeds or bleeding gums
If you notice these signs in your child, consulting a pediatric endocrinologist is necessary to get proper blood tests done.
Other Reasons for Heavy Bleeding
Other than hormonal imbalance and bleeding disorders, other reasons contribute to heavy menstrual bleeding. These reasons are:
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS in teenage girls is a hormonal condition that can begin during the adolescent years. It happens when the ovaries start producing more estrogen, also known as male hormones, which causes irregular ovulation and periods, which eventually lead to heavy bleeding. Some signs of PCOS are acne, weight gain, excess body or facial hair, etc.
Thyroid Problems
The thyroid is a small gland in the neck that controls how the body uses energy. It plays an important role in regulating hormones, including those that affect menstruation. An underactive thyroid can cause heavy periods, weight gain, and extreme fatigue, while an overactive thyroid causes lighter or irregular periods and weight loss.
Extreme Stress Levels
Teenage years can be intensely stressful because of academic pressure, family issues, friendship problems, and social media. When the body is under high stress, it releases stress hormones like cortisol. These hormones can interfere with the normal balance between the brain and ovaries. Managing stress can regulate the menstrual cycle.
Certain Medications
A reason behind heavy bleeding can also be medicines. Some medications increase menstrual bleeding. If a teen starts a new medication and notices some changes in bleeding patterns, it is essential to inform the doctor about it. Generally, doctors simply adjust the medicine dosage or else prescribe a new one that does not cause heavy bleeding.
Treatment for Heavy Periods in Teens
There are treatments available to stop heavy bleeding in teens. But the treatment depends on the cause of the problem.
If hormones are the cause
- Hormonal birth control pills to regulate cycles and reduce blood loss
- Progesterone therapy, prescribing pills to balance the hormones
- Hormonal IUD, releasing progestin to thin the uterine lining
If a bleeding disorder is the cause
- Prescribed medications to make blood clot and reduce bleeding
- Hormonal therapy to prevent menstrual blood loss
- Prescribed Iron supplements to treat anaemia
Final Thoughts: Excess Bleeding Requires Excess Care and Support
Heavy periods in teens are usually caused by hormonal imbalance, especially in the first few years after menstruation begins. However, in some cases, a bleeding disorder or another medical condition may be responsible. Taking care of the menstrual health of your girls is important to maintain their overall well-being.
If you notice the above-mentioned signs in your daughter, book an appointment with the best pediatric endocrinologist in Dubai so that your teen can feel confident and supported during this stage of their life.