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You have an intrauterine device (IUD) -

IUDs are a popular type of birth control. Women usually choose between a non-hormonal, copper-based IUD and a hormonal-based one.

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You have an intrauterine device (IUD) -

Although the copper-based IUDs are known for potentially causing longer, heavier periods, the truth is that both can cause abnormal bleeding.  If after three cycles you're still experiencing longer than usual bleeding, consult with your doctor.

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Hormonal birth control -

Hormonal birth control methods are very popular. From the pill to patches, rings, shots, and implants, women from all over the world use them on a daily basis. But, of course, manipulating hormones will have an impact on your period.

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Hormonal birth control -

This might include longer periods. It can take some trial and error before you find the type of birth control that works best for you. Your doctor can help you with that.

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Early miscarriage -

It is possible that you have suffered an early miscarriage. A large percentage of pregnancies end up in miscarriages, with women not even realizing they were pregnant.

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Early miscarriage -

The only sign is a long, heavier period. Some women, however, may experience these repeatedly. If you experience these for three cycles, then it's time to seek medical assistance.

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Ovulation -

You might just be ovulating. Yes, sometimes hormonal signals get crossed, leading to bleeding when you release an egg. This is known as "intermenstrual bleeding."

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Ovulation -

This can occur close to the end of the cycle and last a couple of days, which might seem like your period is taking forever. There are usually no others symptoms associated, so if you feel pain, see your doctor.

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You might be pregnant -

Yes, really! "A common cause for abnormal menses, including longer bleeding, is pregnancy. Any time a woman has unusual bleeding, it's always best to eliminate possibility of pregnancy with a blood test for pregnancy for reassurance," says Dr. Tom Toth, a reproductive endocrinologist at Boston IVF.

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Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) -

PCOS not only affects fertility, but it can also cause prolonged periods. PCOS is essentially cysts that grow in the ovaries and affect egg formation.

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Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) -

Other symptoms include weight gain and excess hair growth, so if you suffer from any of these, talk to your doctor about getting checked for PCOS.

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Thyroid issues -

Low thyroid function (hypothyroidism) can result in a number of symptoms, including longer periods.

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Thyroid issues -

Watch out for weight gain, fatigue, and hair loss. These are other symptoms of low thyroid function.

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Blood disorder -

You might be suffering from an underlying blood disorder. Some of these are associated with excessive bleeding.

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Blood disorder -

Hemophilia and Von Willebrand disease affect how the blood clots and can result in bleeding. You might want to rule out any blood disorder.

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Uterine polyps or fibroids -

If you have something in your uterus that your body senses shouldn't be there, it will work extra hard to get rid of it. This is the case with uterine polyps or fibroids.

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Uterine polyps or fibroids -

"Uterine abnormalities, such as polyps or fibroids, can cause prolonged periods because they distort the endometrial cavity which can lead to increased blood flow," says Dr. Toth.

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Cervical cancer -

Abnormal vaginal bleeding can be a sign of cervical cancer. Make sure you're doing your Pap and HPV tests regularly.

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Menopause -

Your body might just be getting ready for menopause. And, yes, this can happen as early as your mid-thirties, so your body might just be decreasing the production of certain hormones.

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Menopause -

Talk to your doctor if you're experiencing other signs, including hot flushes and insomnia.

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Stress -

Too much stress can indeed affect your period (and other aspects of your life). "Stress can cause delayed ovulation, causing your period to start later than expected, which can make your periods longer and heavier than usual," explains Dr. Jodie Horton, an ob-gyn in Oakton, Virginia.

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Medications -

Some medications can affect your menstrual cycle. Blood thinners and Aspirin, for instance, can be used to prevent blood clots, and this can have an effect on the flow of your period.

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Ectopic pregnancy -

It can be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy, which is when the egg implants outside of the uterus, usually in the fallopian tubes. Blood work and a pelvic ultrasound can rule this out.

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You're pregnant and might have placenta previa -

This occurs when you get pregnant and the placenta attaches over the opening of the cervix, instead of on the upper part of the uterus.

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You're pregnant and might have placenta previa -

Unfortunately, this usually means that women with this will have various episodes of vaginal bleeding throughout their pregnancies. Usually their babies can only be delivered by C-section.

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Adenomyosis -

This is when the uterus lining (the endometrium) is found in the muscular wall of the uterus. It usually affects women over 40.

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Adenomyosis -

“With adenomyosis, the uterus is usually larger than average, and that leads to heavy, painful periods. Your doctor may order a pelvic ultrasound or MRI to help make the diagnosis,” explains Dr. Horton.

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Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) -

PID is caused by a sexually transmitted bacteria. "If you have abnormal bleeding and pain, get a pelvic exam and get tested for sexually transmitted infections," advises Dr. Horton.

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Your weight might have something to do with it -

Obesity can affect the menstrual cycle, because larger bodies usually produce more estrogen. Losing weight can help reverse this.

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Your weight might have something to do with it -

“When you stop having periods every month, the lining of the uterus will become thick, and eventually shed, resulting in very heavy and prolonged bleeding,” explains Dr. Horton.

Sources: (Women's Health)

See also: How to prepare your body for pregnancy

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