India, Aug. 18 -- Periods are painful, but for some, they can be excruciating if they bleed heavily. According to Dr Pranathi Aravind, senior consultant, department of obstetrics and gynaecology, Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Bengaluru, heavy menstrual bleeding, also called menorrhagia, refers to blood loss that is significantly more than normal or bleeding that lasts significantly longer than expected.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Pranathi stressed that heavy periods are often ignored and considered normal, but they shouldn't be, especially if they cause serious health repercussions. She also explained the diagnostic and treatment options available and why women should consider them.

Heavy menstrual bleeding is a symptom of somethi...