5 home remedies to manage heavy periods

Menstruation is a normal and necessary aspect of a woman’s reproductive health. However, it can be uncomfortable or inconvenient at times, especially with women who experience heavy menstrual bleeding. In some cases, heavy bleeding may even last up to seven days or more, which is termed as menorrhagia. If you have been experiencing heavy menstrual periods try these home remedies to manage heavy periods.

What causes heavy periods?

Several factors can contribute to heavy menstrual bleeding, also known as menorrhagia. Here are some causes of heavy periods, as explained by obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Sneha Rajiv.

1. Hormonal imbalance

Fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly oestrogen and progesterone, can affect the thickness of the uterine lining and cause heavy periods. Conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), insulin resistance and thyroid problems can cause hormonal imbalances, according to the New Jersey Department of Health.

2. Uterine fibroids

Non-cancerous growths in the uterus, known as fibroids, can cause heavier or prolonged menstrual bleeding.

3. Polyps

Uterine or cervical polyps are small growths on the uterine lining or cervix that can cause heavy bleeding.

4. Adenomyosis

This condition occurs when the tissue that lines the uterus grows into the muscular wall of the uterus, leading to heavier periods and pelvic pain.

5. Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition where the tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. It can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, along with pelvic pain and infertility.

6. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs, often caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia or gonorrhoea. It can lead to heavy or irregular periods among other symptoms.

7. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is a hormonal disorder that can cause irregular periods or heavy periods of blood flow, along with other symptoms such as ovarian cysts, weight gain, and excess hair growth.

8. Intrauterine device (IUD)

While rare, some women may experience heavier periods as a side effect of using certain types of intrauterine devices for birth control.

5 best home remedies to manage heavy periods

Here are some of the easy and effective home remedies you can incorporate into your daily routine to deal with heavy periods:

1. Apple cider vinegar

One effective way to manage heavy bleeding is to use apple cider vinegar. It can also help avoid exhaustion and relieve symptoms like headaches and cramps. Add two tablespoons of unfiltered, raw apple cider vinegar to a glass of water. For optimal effects, drink this mocktail twice or three times a day during your period.

2. Keep yourself hydrated

Heavy bleeding causes a drop in blood volume, which can be maintained by consuming 5 to 7 additional cups of water per day, says the expert. Mix electrolytes into the water to meet the requirements of extra fluid of your body.

3. Ginger water

Drinking ginger water can help stop bleeding too much when menstruating. The best at-home treatment for excessive menstrual bleeding is ginger water. Ginger can be either raw or steeped into a tea.

4. Fennel seeds

Fennel seeds contain a chemical known as Emmenagogue, which can help relieve cramps. It contains anti-inflammatory properties that help with excessive menstrual bleeding. It does so by easing period cramps, according to a study published in an International Quarterly Journal of Research in Ayurveda. Pour the fennel seeds into some water, let it sit overnight, and drink this mix in the morning.

5. Red raspberry leaves

Red raspberry leaves can help people who suffer from heavy period flow. These berries contain a component called tannins which strengthens the muscles of the uterus. They also aid in reducing pain in the abdomen, according to a study published in Science Direct Journal.

Put a cup of boiling water with a teaspoon of dried red raspberry leaves in it. After straining the leaves, sip the tea twice a day. You can add a few drops of honey to the mixture if necessary.

Keep in mind!

While these home remedies may help with heavy periods, they are not substitutes for medical treatment. It is critical to speak with a healthcare professional if you are having heavy periods to determine the underlying cause and obtain the necessary medical attention. To meet your particular needs and guarantee your well-being, they can provide you with individualised guidance and management solutions.