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Genital or Urinary Symptoms
Vaginal Bleeding, Abnormal

Menstrual bleeding is abnormal and excessive when any of the following occur:
- More than 7 days (1 week) of bleeding.
- More than 6 well-soaked pads or tampons per day.
- Periods occur more frequently than every 21 days.
- Any bleeding or spotting between regular periods.
On a practical level, however, if a woman feels that the amount of bleeding is excessive or heavier than her normal periods, she should discuss this with her doctor.
An increase of two or more tampons or pads per day or an increase in duration of 3 or more days is significant.

General Information

The first day of menstrual bleeding is considered the first day of a new menstrual cycle.
Menstrual bleeding typically lasts 3-7 days. The heaviest flow usually occurs during the first 1-3 days.
Ovulation generally occurs around day 14 of the cycle.
The length of the menstrual cycle varies from woman to woman. The range is from 24 to 35 days. The average is 28 days.
Excessive vaginal bleeding is the most common cause of iron deficiency anemia in women of childbearing age.

CAUTION: Pregnancy

The possibility of pregnancy must be considered in all women in their childbearing years who have vaginal bleeding.
In early pregnancy, vaginal bleeding can be a sign of serious problems like miscarriage or pregnancy in the tubes.