The amount of blood a woman loses per day during her period varies, but on average, a woman loses about 20 to 90 ml (approximately 1 to 5 tablespoons) of blood over the entire duration of her period. This average includes all days of the period, not just a daily amount. Therefore, bleeding will be heavier on some days than others.
Generally, the heaviest bleeding occurs during the first few days of the period. Bleeding typically lightens towards the end of the period.
Factors Affecting Period Flow:
Several factors can influence how much a woman bleeds during her period, including:
- Age: Period flow can change throughout a woman's life.
- Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels can affect bleeding.
- Birth Control: Some forms of birth control can lighten periods.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions like fibroids or endometriosis can cause heavier bleeding.
- Lifestyle Factors: Stress and diet can also impact period flow.
When to Consult a Doctor:
It's important to consult a doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Periods that are significantly heavier than usual.
- Periods that last longer than seven days.
- Bleeding between periods.
- Severe pain during periods.
- Symptoms of anemia, such as fatigue or dizziness.
A healthcare provider can evaluate your symptoms and determine if any underlying medical conditions need to be addressed. They can also discuss options for managing heavy or painful periods.
