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Yes, prostaglandins contribute to heavy periods by causing the blood vessels in the uterus to dilate (widen) and by preventing the uterus from constricting the vessels after the lining has shed.
While the initial thickness of the uterine lining (endometrium) is a factor in heavy bleeding, prostaglandins worsen the problem through two key actions:
1. Making Blood Vessels Stay Open
When your uterus sheds its lining, the tiny blood vessels that supplied blood to it need to pinch closed to stop the bleeding. Think of it like turning a water tap fully off. An excess of prostaglandins—the same chemicals that cause severe period cramps—interferes with this “turning off the tap” process:
- Preventing Clamping (Closing off): Prostaglandins tell the blood vessels to stay wide open (dilate) instead of pinching shut.
- The Result: The blood tap stays partially on, and prostaglandins also interfere with clotting. This prevents the uterus from completing the process of stopping the blood loss, leading to heavy, prolonged bleeding.
2. Increasing Uterine Muscle Activity
- The Contractions: Prostaglandins cause the uterus to contract aggressively to expel the lining.
- The Blood Flow: These intense contractions can temporarily restrict blood flow, but when the contraction relaxes, blood often surges back to the area, contributing to the feeling of a sudden gush or increased flow.
3. Quickest Relief and Management
- Block Prostaglandins: Taking a doctor-prescribed NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug) at the start of your period is the most effective way to directly stop the overproduction of prostaglandins that cause both pain and heavy bleeding.
- Iron Management: If your periods are consistently heavy, you are at risk for Anemia (low iron). Focus on consuming iron-rich foods (Jaggery, Dates, Beetroot) daily and consult a doctor for necessary supplements.
When to Seek Help for Heavy Periods:
If your bleeding is so heavy that you have to change your pad/tampon every hour for several consecutive hours, or you pass blood clots larger than a ₹2 rupee coin, consult a gynaecologist immediately.
Your Journey to #StopThePeriodPain Starts Here
Every month, millions of Indian girls & women suffer in silence, told that their severe period pain (dysmenorrhea) is “normal.” Our mission is to break that silence. #StopThePeriodPain campaign is here to empower you with 3 simple truths:
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