Is it normal for menstruation to last for several days?

Mar 14, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My period started on the 2nd of this month, and it's still ongoing on the 14th. Is this considered abnormal? Is it normal for a period to last more than ten days?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu

Having a menstrual period for several days, typically more than ten days, is usually abnormal. Normally, a healthy woman's menstrual cycle lasts from 21 to 35 days, with menstrual bleeding lasting 2 to 8 days, averaging about 3 to 5 days, although this can vary among individuals. When the duration of menstruation exceeds the normal range—such as lasting ten days or more—it is considered abnormal. This abnormal condition may be caused by various factors, including physiological reasons like consuming spicy or cold foods during menstruation or engaging in sexual activity. It could also be induced by medications such as antidepressants or anticoagulants. Additionally, gynecological conditions like uterine fibroids, cervical polyps, endometriosis, and ovarian dysfunction may also lead to prolonged menstrual periods.

Women experiencing menstrual bleeding for more than ten days are advised to seek immediate medical consultation for thorough examination to determine the exact cause and receive targeted treatment. If the prolonged menstruation is caused by endocrine disorders, treatment may include oral administration of medications such as propylthiouracil tablets, methimazole tablets, or propranolol hydrochloride tablets under a doctor's guidance. If the cause is uterine fibroids, surgical options such as laparoscopic myomectomy may be considered. In daily life, women should focus on adjusting their lifestyle, maintaining moderate exercise, and ensuring adequate rest to promote physical recovery and regulation.