5 Signs Your Period Might Be Too Heavy

Heavy bleeding? Big clots? Soaking through product (flooding)? Constant pad changes? Need double protection? You don’t have to pretend that’s fine.

If your period feels like it’s taking over your life—forcing you to cancel plans, stay near a bathroom, or carry backup supplies everywhere you go—there’s a good chance it’s heavier than it should be.

And you’re not alone. Nearly 1 in 5 women live with heavy menstrual bleeding (also known as HMB), often without realizing it. Many of us were taught to just “deal with it”—but heavy periods are more than just a nuisance. They can affect your health (i.e., hemoglobin drops and possible requirement for transfusion), your energy, your mood, and your day-to-day life.

Here are 5 signs your period might be heavier than what’s considered normal—and what you can do about it.

1. You’re Changing Pads or Tampons Constantly

If you’re soaking through a pad or tampon every 1–2 hours—or layering products to avoid leaks—that’s a red flag. Bleeding that heavy and that fast isn’t something to brush off.

What’s typical? Most women lose about 2–3 tablespoons of blood during their entire period. More than 5 tablespoons (that's 80 mL for our metric fans) is considered heavy.

2. You’re Passing Large Blood Clots

A few small clots here and there aren’t unusual. But if you’re regularly seeing clots the size of a quarter or larger, your flow may be too heavy for your body to keep up with.

Larger clots often mean your uterus is shedding blood faster than it can flow out smoothly.

3. Your Period Drags On for More Than a Week

A cycle that lasts more than 7 days—especially if it stays heavy—is a sign that something might be off. Not only is a long period exhausting, but it may increase your risk for iron deficiency.

You shouldn’t have to plan your life around when your period might finally end.

4. You Feel Drained, Dizzy, or Foggy During Your Cycle

Yes, periods can mess with your energy—but if you feel completely wiped out, foggy-headed, or even faint, it could be a sign of low iron levels caused by heavy blood loss.

This kind of fatigue isn’t “just part of being a woman.” It’s a symptom—and it’s valid.

5. Your Period Is Interrupting Your Life

Missed work? Skipped social plans? Avoided travel because of your period? If your monthly cycle is dictating how you live, it’s time to rethink what’s “normal.”

You deserve a period that works with your life—not against it.

What You Can Do

If any of these signs sound familiar, talk to your healthcare provider. And know that you have options.

OhmBody is a wearable, drug-free wellness solution that supports:

• 55% less menstrual blood loss during your period
• 20% shorter periods
• Reduced cramps and discomfort
• More balanced energy, mood, and sleep during your cycle

It’s science-backed support you can use at home—without hormones or side effects.

Your Cycle. Your Terms.

No one knows your body like you do. If your period is making life harder than it should be, it’s time to explore new tools that put you back in control.

Citations:
https://www.cdc.gov/female-blood-disorders/communication-resources/signs-and-symptoms.html