How common are heavy periods?
It's difficult to say how common heavy periods are because many women don't see their doctor about this problem.
- Experts think that up to 3 out of 10 women (30 percent) have heavy periods. 1
- White women and black women are equally likely to have heavy periods.2
- About 1 in 3 American women have their womb removed before they turn 60 (this operation is called a hysterectomy). Heavy periods are the reason for at least half of these operations.3
Sources for the information on this page:
- Stabinsky SA, Einstein M, Breen JL. Modern treatments of menorrhagia attributable to dysfunctional uterine bleeding. Obstetrical and Gynecological Survey. 1999; 54: 61-72.
- Kjerulff KH, Erickson BA, Langenberg PW. Chronic gynecological conditions reported by US women: findings from the National Health Interview Survey, 1984 to 1992. American Journal of Public Health. 1996; 86: 195-199. 8633735
- Pokras R, Hufnagel VG. Hysterectomy in the United States, 1965-84. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, CDC, 1987; DHHS publication no. (PHS) 87-1753. (Vital and health statistics; series 13, no. 92).
This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice.
Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment.
