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Quick answer
Most periods last 2 to 7 days. A period that regularly lasts longer than 7 days is worth discussing with a GP. Common causes include hormonal contraception, cycles without ovulation (common in teens, perimenopause and PCOS), fibroids, polyps and thyroid problems. Very heavy bleeding or feeling faint needs urgent help.
- Most periods last 2 to 7 days; regularly bleeding for longer is worth a GP visit.
- Contraception, cycles without ovulation, fibroids and thyroid problems are common causes.
- Very heavy bleeding, feeling faint, or bleeding in pregnancy needs urgent help.
Most periods last 2 to 7 days. A period that regularly goes on for longer than 7 days, or a single period that lasts more than a week with heavy bleeding, is worth discussing with a GP. Gynaecologists using the FIGO system call bleeding of more than 8 days “prolonged”.
Why is my period lasting so long?
- Hormonal contraception, especially the implant, injection or a new coil.
- Cycles without ovulation (anovulation), common in teens, perimenopause and PCOS.
- Fibroids, polyps or adenomyosis.
- Thyroid problems or bleeding disorders.
- Pregnancy-related bleeding, if you could be pregnant.
What will a GP ask about a long period?
- How many days you bleed, and for how many cycles it has happened.
- How often you change pads or tampons, and whether you flood or pass clots larger than about 2.5cm.
- Whether you feel tired, dizzy or short of breath.
- What contraception you use, and whether you could be pregnant.
Sources
Written by the Splash teamSources checked
This is general information, not medical advice. Splash can’t diagnose. If you’re worried, talk to a GP, pharmacist or sexual health clinic. In an emergency call 999 (UK) or 911 (US). How we write and check articles.