HealthInfo Waitaha Canterbury
Diagnosing heavy periods
Your GP will ask you about your heavy periods, including how frequent they are and how heavy the bleeding is. They will also ask about other symptoms you might have or any changes to your period.
It can be helpful to complete a menstrual diary, which is a record of your periods. The diary can help your GP understand how heavy your periods are, and when you have period pain. You can also download a period tracker app, called Clue, for iPhones and Android phones, or Period Tracker for Android phones.
Bring your diary along to your appointment to discuss with your doctor.
Tests for heavy periods
You may need several kinds of tests to find the cause of your heavy periods. Your GP will do them or refer you to a specialist doctor called a gynaecologist. If you prefer, you can pay to see a private gynaecologist. You can find a private gynaecologist on Healthpoint.
Tests may include the following.
- Blood test to check for anaemia or blood clotting, and to test your thyroid function or hormone levels.
- Ultrasound scan to check for fibroids, ovarian cysts, or abnormal thickening of your uterus lining.
- Pipelle biopsy procedure that takes a small sample (biopsy) of the cells from the lining of your womb (uterus). If your GP doesn't provide this procedure, they will refer you to another doctor who does.
- Hysteroscopy, a procedure where a small camera is passed through your vagina and cervix to look inside your womb.
The doctor will check if you are up to date with your cervical screening. You may need a repeat test to check for infections.
On the next page: Treating heavy periods
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed September 2021.
Review key: HIPER-53354
