Help—My Teen Has Heavy Periods
(And Yes, It’s Impacting Her Life)
Most of this platform is built for people navigating their own reproductive care. But it’s not lost on me that many of us are also caregivers—especially to teens who are just beginning to understand their bodies and what’s normal (or not).
If your daughter is missing school because of her period, bleeding through clothes or sheets, or feeling anxious every time her cycle starts… you’re not overreacting.
You’re noticing signs that her quality of life is being impacted—or she’s telling you herself.
And that’s more than enough reason to speak up.
Let’s break it down.
Here’s what you need to know (and ask) if your teen is struggling with heavy periods:
1. How heavy is too heavy?
If your teen is:
Bleeding through a pad or tampon every 1–2 hours
Needing double protection (e.g., tampon + pad) for multiple days
Soaking the bed at night or avoiding sleepovers
Missing school, sports, or social events
Feeling dizzy, pale, or fatigued during her cycle
These are not just “normal period problems.” They’re signs that it’s time to bring it up with a provider.
2. What could be causing this?
Heavy periods (medically called menorrhagia) can have a few root causes, including:
Hormonal imbalances (especially during puberty)
Bleeding disorders (like von Willebrand disease—often missed!)
Thyroid issues or anemia
No clear cause at all—just an overwhelmed cycle that needs some support
You don’t need to have an answer walking in. You just need to say, “This is interfering with her life—and we’d like help.”
3. What are our treatment options?
Depending on the cause, your provider may recommend:
Low-dose birth control pills to regulate and lighten periods
Hormonal IUDs or Nexplanon (safe, reversible, and appropriate for teens)
Tranexamic acid or NSAIDs to reduce bleeding on heavy days
And before you even think it:
Putting your teen on birth control is not giving them permission to have sex.
But if they do, it’s good to know they’ll be protected.
Just make sure they also understand: condoms should always be used alongside hormonal birth control to prevent STIs and add an extra layer of pregnancy protection.
4. Start with your pediatrician.
There is absolutely no reason why your child’s pediatrician can’t start treatment—including birth control—if it’s medically appropriate. But here’s the thing: many just don’t.
Call the office and ask directly:
“Do your providers prescribe oral contraceptives for menstrual management in teens?”
If they say yes? Great—start there. That’s likely a provider your child can grow with.
If they say no? That may be a red flag. If they’re unwilling to address periods now, they may not be the right fit when your kid starts having more complex or personal health needs.
There’s no need to go straight to an OB/GYN if your pediatrician is proactive. But if they’re hesitant or dismissive, trust your gut—it’s okay to look elsewhere.
5. What about school accommodations?
If this is affecting her attendance or focus, ask the provider for a note or documentation. That can help with:
504 plans or excused absences
Bathroom access during class
Grace during gym or swim
Periods shouldn’t be a barrier to her education—or her confidence.
6. How can I support her emotionally, too?
Start by validating that what she’s going through is real and treatable. Let her know she’s not being dramatic, and that you’re in her corner. Offer to let her lead the conversation with her provider—or advocate for her if she’s not ready yet. Both are valid.
The bottom line?
Heavy periods are common. But that doesn’t mean they’re okay.
If your teen is dreading her cycle every month, losing sleep, or missing out on life—it’s time to take action.
You’re not just helping her manage her period.
You’re showing her what self-advocacy looks like.
You’re modeling that her body, her time, and her peace of mind all matter.
And that is powerful.
