Mortal menstruation
Question
I was told that women can die from heavy bleeding during their period. Is this true?
Answer
Although periods can vary in how heavy and painful they are, the small amount of blood you lose through having them isn't enough to cause death.
There are a lot of myths surrounding periods and the menstrual cycle. These can cause a lot of misunderstanding and unnecessary anxiety, so it's important to ask questions when you're unsure about the credibility of what you hear.
Having a period is the body's way of shedding the lining of the womb. During this time it's normal to lose about four to six tablespoons of blood. This is a completely natural experience for all women, and it means that they are healthy and their bodies are performing as they should.
If you're worried about heavy periods, speak to your local doctor (GP) or a nurse for advice.
If you'd like to find out more about periods, you could contact NHS Direct via their website, or you can call their helpline on 0845 4647.
Updated: 06/06/2011
Question answered by bss
