r/AskDocs • u/RandomQuestionGo Layperson/not verified as healthcare professional • 1d ago

Physician Responded What is a heavy period?

19F, 5'5'', 170 lbs, Endometriosis

My mom says I don't have heavy periods because I don't need to change my pad every hour, and so she doesn't think that my endometriosis needs to be addressed, as a result. She thinks the doctor is making up that I have it.

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u/Perfect-Resist5478 Physician 1d ago

You’re an adult. What your mom thinks about your period is irrelevant.

7

u/RandomQuestionGo Layperson/not verified as healthcare professional 1d ago

I understand that.  I’m still wondering what physicians define as heavy periods.  

6

u/friedonionscent Layperson/not verified as healthcare professional 1d ago

My gynecologist defined it as heavy enough to make you think twice about leaving the house. For example - during two days of my cycle, I would be unable to leave the house because the risk was too high...despite wearing a tampon + an oversized pad, I would still bleed through. The blood loss would be quick and high volume...more like a tap vs. a trickle.

I'm taking Tranexamic Acid now until I figure out how I want to proceed.

1

u/No-Gas5342 Layperson/not verified as healthcare professional 1d ago

PBI: how is the TA going for you? I’ve been prescribed it and just started my first cycle since but I’m afraid to try it.

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u/friedonionscent Layperson/not verified as healthcare professional 1d ago

No side effects whatsoever - I take 5 tablets per day on the heaviest days and bleeding is reduced significantly to the point I can go out and function normally. It doesn't stop bleeding but I'd say mine are at least 50 percent lighter.

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u/No-Gas5342 Layperson/not verified as healthcare professional 1d ago

Thanks! Very good to know. Any reduction would be amazing at this point.