Having your period every month is already a challenge, but it’s even worse when you deal with a heavy flow, or menorrhagia. You fly through your menstrual products, you’re always afraid of leaking through your outfits, and it’s also just not normal. So, if you’re fed up with a heavy menstrual flow, here are three potential causes to take into consideration.

It’s true that every woman’s period is her own. Some women experience heavier flows than others, and they also have different PMS symptoms. It all depends on your body, hormonal balance (or imbalance), and your diet and lifestyle. 

But one thing’s for sure: too-heavy periods are not normal (even if they’re common). And they’re not healthy either. Instead, they’re a signal that your hormones are imbalance.

So, consider heavy periods a red flag (literally!). They’re warning you about an underlying problem, like the following three reasons for a heavy menstrual flow.

Too much estrogen

Estrogen dominance is one of the contributing factors to conditions like ovarian cysts, polyps, endometriosis, and yes, heavy bleeding. That’s because high estrogen levels increase the thickness of the uterine lining, which you then shed when your period arrives. 

Copper IUDs

This form of birth control can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, especially during the first year of use, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. If you have a copper IUD and heavy bleeding, you may want to check in with your doctor to discuss other contraceptive options. 

Low thyroid function

Low thyroid function, or hypothyroidism, manifests in many symptoms, and heavy bleeding is one of them. Therefore, it may be a good idea to have your thyroid checked – especially if you feel fatigued and cold, while also experiencing unexplained weight gain.