She Strengthens

The Mystery of the Never-Ending Period: 16 Possible Reasons

When Your Period Takes Over

Let’s face it: bleeding from your vagina for days on end is no picnic. And when your period decides to stick around for a few extra days, you can’t help but wonder why. The truth is, everyone’s “normal” period is different, and what’s typical for your friends, family, or even your mom might not be typical for you.

A Typical Period… and Then Some

A normal period usually lasts anywhere from 2 to 7 days. But if yours has been going on for longer than that, it’s time to investigate. Here are 16 possible reasons why your period just won’t quit:

1. Pregnancy: The Ultimate Game-Changer

If you think you’re pregnant, take a test! Spotting in the early days of pregnancy is totally normal, and sometimes bleeding comes before any other symptoms kick in.

2. Early Miscarriage: A Devastating Possibility

Sadly, about 10 to 15% of pregnancies end early, and bleeding could be a sign of early miscarriage. If you’re pregnant and bleeding, call your OB/GYN ASAP.

3. Ovulation Bleeding: A Light Spot

Ovulation bleeding affects 3% of women, causing light spotting. It usually occurs mid-cycle, but can vary month to month.

4. IUD Side Effects: Heavy and Irregular

Heavy, irregular periods are common side effects of intrauterine devices (IUDs). Both hormonal and nonhormonal IUDs can disrupt your period.

5. New Birth Control: Hormonal Havoc

Birth control is meant to mess with your hormones. Even if you’re taking it to make your periods shorter or more regular, you might end up with longer, heavier periods.

6. Thyroid Issues: A Hormonal Imbalance

An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can cause long, heavy periods. Other symptoms include feeling cold, constipation, weight gain, and dry skin.

7. Adenomyosis: A Painful Possibility

Adenomyosis occurs when uterine tissue grows inside your uterine walls, causing long, heavy, and painful periods.

8. Fibroids and Polyps: Uterine Growth Gone Wrong

Fibroids and polyps are uterine growths that can cause periods from hell. Both are rarely cancerous, but can affect fertility and quality of life.

9. PCOS: A Hormonal Rollercoaster

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) causes cysts to grow on your ovaries, disrupting your menstrual cycle. Irregular, prolonged periods are a common symptom.

10. Medication Side Effects: Unintended Consequences

Certain medications, like anti-inflammatories and blood thinners, can contribute to heavier, longer bleeding.

11. Stress: A Hormonal Hijack

Stress causes a rise in cortisol, which can affect your menstrual cycle. If you’re going through a tough time, this could be the cause.

12. Endometriosis: A Painful Reality

Endometriosis occurs when uterine tissue grows elsewhere, causing long, painful, heavy periods.

13. Weight Gain: An Estrogen Imbalance

Having obesity encourages Aunt Flo to extend her stay by promoting estrogen production. Extra estrogen can mess with your cycle.

14. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: A Bacterial Infection

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a bacterial infection that can cause irregular, abnormal periods.

15. Reproductive Cancers: An Early Warning Sign

Changes in your period could be an early sign of cervical or uterine cancer.

16. Perimenopause: The Change is Coming

Perimenopause can start as early as age 35, causing irregular periods, heavier bleeding, and skipped periods.

When to Call Your Doc

If you experience unusual bleeding, pain, or other symptoms, don’t hesitate to call your doctor. They’ll ask about your medical history, perform a pelvic exam, and may recommend testing to determine the underlying cause.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the underlying cause, but hormonal birth control, iron supplements, and surgery are all possibilities.

Remember, don’t panic! There are many reasons your period might be overstaying its welcome. If you experience long periods for more than three cycles, see your doc. Handling it yourself only delays treatment and could lead to more invasive treatments in the future.