Why might my period not stop as expected?

There are several reasons why your period might keep bleeding longer than usual. One common reason is menorrhagia, which is heavy menstrual bleeding. When hormones become imbalanced, your uterus may keep shedding its lining, resulting in longer bleeding. Sometimes, growths in the uterus such as fibroids or polyps can cause the bleeding to persist instead of stopping when you expect it to. Other factors that might play a role include blood clotting disorders or the use of certain medications (like blood thinners) that make bleeding last longer. In many cases, stress, weight changes, or other health issues may also affect your hormones and contribute to abnormal uterine bleeding. If you notice that your period does not stop as expected, it's important to keep track of your bleeding and speak with a healthcare provider, especially if it lasts longer than 14 days or you begin to feel fatigued or dizzy when standing. You can start by using a free symptom checker to better understand your symptoms before your appointment. They can perform tests, like blood work or an ultrasound, to help understand what's happening and find the right treatment for you.