Resources
When to see a doctor
Your cycle is a vital sign. These signs are worth a conversation with a professional.
Very heavy bleeding
Soaking through a pad or tampon every hour or two, or passing large clots.
Pain that stops your life
Cramps that anti-inflammatory painkillers like ibuprofen don’t help (these are first-line, per Cochrane evidence), or that keep you from school, work or sleep — this can be a sign of endometriosis, which affects about 1 in 10 women and girls of reproductive age (WHO).
Missed or very irregular periods
Several missed periods, or cycles shorter than 21 or longer than 35 days.
Bleeding between periods
Spotting or bleeding at unexpected times, or after sex.
Big mood changes
Low mood, anxiety or anger before your period that seriously affects daily life.
In an emergency
If you feel faint, have severe sudden pain or very heavy bleeding, seek urgent care right away.