Don’t Let Heavy Periods Derail Your Holiday Plans

The holidays are filled with events you want to enjoy: dinners, parties, family gatherings, travel, just to name a few. But if you struggle with heavy periods, even the most festive plans can quickly become stressful.

Worrying about leaks, pain, or constant bathroom trips can make it difficult to fully participate in the season.

Our team of expert providers at Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates in Marietta, Georgia, helps women find lasting relief so heavy bleeding doesn’t control their life. 

Below, we share what you should know as the holidays approach.

What counts as a “heavy” period?

Many women are surprised to learn what actually qualifies as heavy bleeding. You might lose 60 millimeters during a regular period, but 80 millimeters (or more) if you have heavy periods. That’s about one-third of a cup. Unless you use a menstrual cup, it’s hard to measure your blood loss each period.

Instead, you might look to other symptoms. You might be experiencing heavy periods (menorrhagia) if you:

• Bleed through pads or tampons every 1-2 hours
• Double up on pads and tampons 
• Pass large clots
• Have periods lasting longer than seven days

If these symptoms sound familiar, it’s time to get checked, especially if your flow disrupts work, travel, or social plans.

Why you shouldn’t ignore heavy bleeding

Need a nudge to get medical care for heavy periods? Here are a few reasons why you shouldn’t ignore heavy bleeding:

Heavy periods impact your physical and mental health

Heavy periods aren’t just inconvenient. They can take a toll on both your mental and physical health. Many women deal with anemia, fatigue, dizziness, or mood changes without realizing the cause is their menstrual cycle. 

Others simply accept the discomfort because “that’s how it’s always been.” Your physical symptoms can then spiral into frustration and stress. 

Ignoring a heavy period means that it takes longer to get to the root of the problem

There are underlying medical reasons why heavy bleeding happens, and delaying treatment only delays getting to the root of the problem. The following conditions can contribute to heavy bleeding:

• Hormonal imbalance
• Uterine fibroids
• Polyps
• Endometriosis or adenomyosis
• Thyroid conditions

These conditions can be treated, and the sooner you know what’s going on, the sooner you can get relief.

Ignoring heavy periods can halt your social calendar this holiday season

Ignoring heavy periods can halt your social calendar. When you’re worried about leaks, cramps, or needing to use the bathroom nearby, it’s easy to start turning down invitations.

You might start skipping holiday shopping trips with friends, sitting out of family outings, or opting out of dancing at holiday parties. The truth is, this doesn’t just affect your plans; it affects your confidence, your mood, and your ability to fully enjoy the moments you want to be part of. 

You shouldn’t have to plan your life around your period,  and you don’t have to.

Treatment options that fit your life

The good news? You don’t have to choose between enjoying the holidays and caring for your health. Our team offers a range of solutions based on your symptoms and goals, including:

• Medication to regulate or lighten your period
• Minimally invasive procedures to treat fibroids or polyps
• Endometrial ablation for long-term relief from heavy bleeding

Our providers at Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates help you understand your options and decide what’s right for you.

Put your health first

Don’t let another holiday pass while you sit on the sidelines or plan your life around your period. You deserve to feel your best, not just in December, but every month.

If heavy bleeding is impacting your quality of life, schedule an appointment in our Marietta, Georgia, office.

You can also reach our team at 770-422-8505.