Heavy Periods in Perimenopause: What to Know
Perimenopause guide
Quick answer
Periods can get heavier or longer in perimenopause, the years before menopause. Your hormones rise and fall, so your flow can change from month to month. Heavy bleeding is more common as you near menopause, but do not ignore it. See a doctor if bleeding is very heavy, lasts more than 7 days, or comes between periods.
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- Perimenopause usually starts in your mid-40s and can last years.
- Your flow may be light one month and heavy the next.
- Very heavy, long or between-period bleeding needs a doctor.
- Kischt has three absorbent layers for heavier flow days.
Why are periods heavier in perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the time before menopause. Your hormones rise and fall. You may not release an egg every month.
So your periods can change. They may come closer together or further apart. Your flow may be light one month and heavy the next. You may skip some periods.
Heavy bleeding is more common as you get close to menopause.
What counts as a heavy period?
- Soaking a pad or tampon every hour for several hours in a row
- Needing two products at once, like a pad and a tampon
- Waking up at night to change
- Bleeding for more than 7 days
- Passing clots bigger than a quarter
- Bleeding through to your clothes or bedding
- Feeling tired or short of breath
Period underwear for perimenopause flooding
Some people call a sudden, heavy gush flooding. Perimenopause periods can also be hard to predict.
Kischt period underwear has three absorbent layers, made for heavier flow days. A moisture barrier helps stop leaks reaching your clothes. The gusset runs up toward the back, for extra coverage when you sit or lie down.
On your heaviest days, pair it with a pad, tampon or cup.
How to plan for unpredictable periods
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Track your periods
Note the dates and how heavy each day is. Bring your notes to your doctor.
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Wear it on maybe days
Wear period underwear on days your period might start.
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Carry a spare
Keep a spare pair and a small bag in your handbag.
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Keep pairs in rotation
Wash after each wear and let it dry fully before the next wear.
Backup for heavy, unpredictable days
Kischt Period Underwear, Truffle (hazelnut brown) · $24.95
Sizes XS to 4XL. You have 30 days to request a refund.
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Questions? Email hello@kischt.com.
Common questions
Is it normal to have heavy periods in perimenopause?
Heavier periods can happen as hormones change. Heavy bleeding is more common as you near menopause. But very heavy bleeding is a reason to see a doctor.
What is perimenopause flooding?
Flooding is a word people use for a sudden, heavy gush of blood. If you soak a pad or tampon every hour for over two hours, see a doctor.
Are blood clots normal in perimenopause?
Clots bigger than a quarter are a sign of heavy bleeding. Tell your doctor if you pass them.
Why are my periods lasting longer in perimenopause?
Hormones rise and fall in perimenopause, so periods can get longer or shorter. See a doctor if bleeding lasts more than 7 days.
How long does perimenopause last?
It usually starts in your mid-40s. On average it lasts about four years, but it can last up to eight.
Can I use period underwear for heavy perimenopause periods?
Yes. Kischt has three absorbent layers made for heavier flow days. On your heaviest days, pair it with a pad, tampon or cup.
More guides
- Health guideHeavy Periods Over 40 and 50: What to Know
- Honest guidePerimenopause and Menopause Underwear: An Honest Guide
- Heavy flow guide5 Reasons Kischt Works for Heavy Periods
- How it worksHow Does Period Underwear Work?
See all guides: Period Underwear Guide: Every Question Answered
Sources
Updated by the Kischt team.
This page is general information, not medical advice. See a doctor if you are worried about your health.
Returns: you have 30 days after you get your order to request a refund. Details are in the return policy.