Heavy menstrual bleeding-defined as soaking through one or more pads or tampons every hour for several consecutive hours-is a surprisingly common yet frequently enough-silenced health issue affecting a majority of women. A new survey reveals just how widespread the condition is,with two out of three women reporting experiencing it at some point in their lives. This prevalence underscores a critical gap in awareness and care, as many suffer in silence due to stigma, normalization, or a lack of access to proper diagnosis and treatment, impacting their physical, mental, and financial well-being.
A recent Ipsos BVA survey reveals that two out of three women experience heavy menstrual bleeding. Despite its prevalence, the condition remains stigmatized, often minimized or ignored, leading to significant psychological, physical, and financial consequences for those affected.
“It’s been ruining my life for months,” says Géraldine, 44, who, like two-thirds of women, suffers from heavy periods. This often-overlooked condition was the focus of a recent national investigation, highlighting a critical gap in women’s health awareness and care.
The Ipsos BVA study surveyed 4,000 women aged 15 to 54. The results are striking: 67% report experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding, and half of those women say it directly impacts their physical and mental health. However, nearly half have never discussed the issue with a healthcare professional, often resigning themselves to “living with” the condition. This underscores the need for increased open communication between patients and providers regarding menstrual health.
Key Findings from the Survey
- Young women aged 18-24 are most affected (45% of respondents in this age group). This is followed by women aged 50-54 (43%), 15-17 (41%), 25-34 (40%), 35-39 (38%), 45-49 (37%), and 40-44 (34%).
- Women with heavy periods report higher levels of fatigue: 13% of women rate their energy levels between 0 and 4 out of 10 during their cycle, compared to 7% of women who do not experience heavy bleeding.
- Their mental health is also more significantly impacted: 22% of women with heavy periods rate their psychological well-being between 0 and 4 out of 10, compared to 10% of others.
- Women experiencing heavy bleeding are more likely to have gynecological issues: 44% compared to 26%.
“Like Niagara Falls for a Week”
Géraldine did discuss her symptoms with her midwife. “She explained that it wasn’t normal, of course, but it was common during perimenopause – the transitional period generally occurring two to four years before menopause – and with the appearance of benign fibroids,” she told Midi Libre.
“It’s like Niagara Falls for a week. Non-stop, even at night,” Géraldine describes. Her period dominates her thoughts during the week it lasts. The condition creates a significant mental burden. “I can feel it coming on, and sometimes I have to leave a meeting to go to the bathroom.” She wishes she could work from home at least for the first two days, “just to have a clear head.”
She manages her flow with a combination of menstrual underwear, sanitary pads, and tampons, changing her “equipment” every 90 minutes. She admits, with embarrassment, that she has stained clothes and furniture, even at the cinema. “It’s humiliating…”
This situation takes a toll not only on her emotional well-being but also on her finances, as managing heavy periods can be expensive.
A Need to Move the Conversation Beyond Privacy
Described as a “blind spot in women’s health” by the study’s authors, the issue requires “collective awareness, at the intersection of health, equality, and well-being.” They emphasize the need to inform, educate, listen, and finally recognize heavy menstrual bleeding as a legitimate medical, social, and economic reality. The findings highlight the importance of addressing gaps in women’s healthcare and promoting better understanding of menstrual health.
The authors advocate for “better training for healthcare professionals, engagement from the workplace and institutions, and an end to relegating the topic to the private sphere.”
