Why Is My Period Lasting Longer Than Usual? 16 Possible Causes

How Many Days Does a Normal Period Last?

A normal period typically lasts between 2 and 7 days. This variation is influenced by the body’s natural hormonal fluctuations and the standard 21-day menstrual cycle causes. However, individual differences are common, and many women have experienced moments of wondering, "Why is my period 2 days longer than usual?"

Healthy individuals may notice changes in their cycle due to age or hormonal shifts throughout their reproductive years. In general, anything over an 8-10 day period may be a cause for concern and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Sometimes, healthcare professionals use the term menorrhagia to describe excessive or prolonged bleeding. However, this term is considered outdated. The preferred medical term today is Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB). While longer periods aren't always a sign of a serious issue, identifying the underlying cause is important for proper management.

Why Is My Period Lasting Longer Than Usual?

Longer periods can be both frustrating and confusing. What counts as “longer than usual” can vary from person to person—for example, if your typical period lasts 5 days but suddenly extends to 9, that would be considered prolonged. Bleeding heavily for more than 8 days, or finding yourself wondering, “Why is my period not stopping after 2 weeks?” may signal an underlying issue and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Common Causes of a Longer Period Than Normal

1. Hormonal Imbalances

Disruptions in the release or response of reproductive hormones can lead to fluctuations in your menstrual cycle, including longer periods.

Symptoms may include:

• Irregular periods

• Mood swings

• Fatigue

• Skin issues

• Sleep disturbances

Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to assess hormone levels and signs of ovulation. Tools like the Mira Hormone Monitor, Mira Wands, and Mira BBT (Basal Body Temperature) can help track these patterns. Data collected in the Mira App can provide insight into irregularities, such as anovulatory cycles or estrogen dominance. If you experience significant or persistent changes—like rapid weight gain or severe mood swings—it's important to consult your doctor.

Estrogen dominance

Estrogen dominance occurs when there is too much estrogen in relation to progesterone. This imbalance can interfere with ovulation or prevent proper shedding of the uterine lining, resulting in longer or heavier periods.

Common symptoms include:

• Heavy or prolonged bleeding

• Breast tenderness

• Premenstrual symptoms (PMS)

• Mood changes

• Insomnia

• Bloating

• Decreased libido

Diagnosis involves a combination of symptom evaluation and hormonal testing. Speak with a healthcare provider if you notice sudden or severe changes in your mental health, weight, or menstrual flow.

Progesterone deficiency

Progesterone deficiency occurs when the body does not produce enough progesterone after ovulation. This hormonal imbalance can lead to irregular periods, difficulty conceiving, early pregnancy loss, hot flashes, night sweats, and spotting or breakthrough bleeding.

Diagnosis typically involves a blood test performed in the second half of the menstrual cycle, when progesterone levels should peak. If you're experiencing difficulty conceiving or showing other signs of hormonal imbalance, consult your doctor or gynecologist.

Anovulatory cycles

An anovulatory cycle is a menstrual cycle in which ovulation does not occur. Without ovulation, hormone levels become unbalanced, which can disrupt your cycle.

Common symptoms include:

• Irregular or missed periods

• Very heavy or very light bleeding

• Changes in cervical mucus

To diagnose anovulation, your doctor will review your medical history, perform a physical exam and pelvic ultrasound, order hormone tests, and may recommend cycle tracking. If you're trying to conceive or experiencing irregular or heavy periods, it's important to speak with your doctor.

2. Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous (benign) growths of fibrous tissue within the uterus. They can lead to longer, heavier, and more painful periods, as well as other symptoms.

Common symptoms include:

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding

• Pelvic pain or pressure

• Frequent urination

• Constipation

• Pain during sex

Diagnosis usually involves a pelvic exam and imaging tests such as an ultrasound or MRI. If you experience any of these symptoms—especially if they affect your quality of life—seek medical advice for appropriate treatment options.

3. Uterine Polyps

Uterine polyps are small, soft growths that develop in the lining of the uterus (endometrium). Unlike fibroids, polyps are less fibrous and typically remain confined to the endometrial layer.

Common symptoms include:

• Irregular menstrual bleeding

• Heavy or prolonged periods

• Bleeding between periods

• Vaginal bleeding after menopause

• Less commonly, pain during or bleeding after intercourse

If you are experiencing heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, intermenstrual spotting, postmenopausal bleeding, or difficulty conceiving, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for evaluation and appropriate treatment.

4. Adenomyosis

Adenomyosis occurs when endometrial tissue grows into the muscular wall of the uterus. This condition can cause the uterus to become enlarged and is often associated with painful or heavy periods.

Common symptoms include:

• Heavy or painful menstruation

• Pelvic pain or cramping

• A sensation of fullness or pressure in the lower abdomen

• Pain during sex (dyspareunia)

• Difficulty conceiving

However, many women with adenomyosis may have no symptoms at all. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, imaging tests (such as ultrasound or MRI), and in some cases, biopsy. If you experience severe menstrual pain, pain during sex, or discomfort that interferes with daily life, speak with a healthcare professional.

5. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is a hormonal condition that affects ovulation and can lead to irregular or prolonged menstrual cycles. Other common symptoms include acne, difficulty conceiving, and hirsutism (excess hair growth on the face and body, especially around the mouth and chin).

Treatment typically focuses on managing symptoms through lifestyle changes, including stress reduction, a balanced diet, hormonal treatment and targeted supplements. Products such as Mira PCOS Supplements or Mira Fertility Tea are formulated to help support hormonal balance.

Diagnosis requires meeting at least two of the following criteria:

• Irregular or absent menstrual cycles

• Signs of excess androgens (e.g., acne, hirsutism)

• Polycystic ovaries are visible on an ultrasound

If you are experiencing persistent symptoms, speak with your doctor to explore testing and treatment options.

6. Thyroid Disorders

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck. It plays a key role in regulating metabolism and hormone balance. Both overactive thyroid function (hyperthyroidism) and underactive thyroid function (hypothyroidism) can affect your menstrual cycle.

Thyroid hormone levels are typically assessed through blood tests. While your doctor or endocrinologist will usually order a full hormone panel, at-home finger-prick blood tests—such as the Panorama Lab Test—can serve as a helpful first step in tracking hormone-related cycle changes.

See your doctor if you experience:

• A lump or swelling in the neck

• Unexplained weight gain or loss

• Persistent fatigue

• Tremors or shakiness

• Irregular or rapid heart rate

Accurate diagnosis and early treatment of thyroid conditions can help restore menstrual regularity and improve overall well-being.

Hypothyroidism 

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland has abnormally low activity and does not produce enough hormones. This condition can slow down the menstrual cycle and lead to prolonged bleeding, fatigue, weight gain, increased sensitivity to cold, constipation, and dry skin.

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, blood tests to assess thyroid hormone levels, and evaluation of symptoms. If you experience persistent fatigue, unexplained weight gain, or symptoms of depression, it’s important to consult your doctor.

Hyperthyroidism 

Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces and releases excessive amounts of hormones. This overactivity can result in irregular or lighter periods, increased appetite, rapid or irregular heartbeat, anxiety, and sleep disturbances.

Your doctor will diagnose hyperthyroidism through symptom assessment, blood work, and a physical examination. If you experience a rapid or irregular heartbeat, anxiety, tremors, or excessively light or heavy periods, seek medical advice.

7. Stress and Lifestyle Factors

High levels of stress, sudden weight changes, or a poor diet lacking essential nutrients can disrupt the menstrual cycle. These factors may cause heavier or lighter periods, missed periods, hormonal imbalances, or complete absence of menstruation (amenorrhea).

Diagnosis often includes a lifestyle and health history review, along with a symptom assessment. You should see a doctor if you experience any of the following:

• Bleeding that soaks through sanitary products in less than an hour

• Severe menstrual pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter pain relief

• Spotting between periods

• Menstrual bleeding that lasts longer than seven days

8. Perimenopause or Menopause Transition

Hormonal changes during the perimenopausal years—typically beginning after age 40—can lead to longer or irregular menstrual cycles. This transition is also associated with a range of symptoms, including hot flashes, mood swings, sleep disturbances, and a decreased libido.

Tools like the Mira Menopause Transition Kit, along with the Menopause Transition mode in the Mira App, can help track hormonal fluctuations and provide insight into your changing cycle.

Common symptoms include:

• Irregular periods

• Hot flashes and night sweats

• Mood changes and irritability

• Sleep disturbances

• Vaginal dryness

• Decreased libido

To assess whether you’re entering perimenopause, your doctor may evaluate your symptoms, review changes in your menstrual cycle, or order blood tests to check hormone levels. It's important to seek medical advice if you experience:

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding

• Bleeding between periods

• Symptoms that significantly interfere with your quality of life

9. Birth Control and IUDs

Different forms of contraception can affect your menstrual cycle in various ways. Some methods may stop menstruation altogether, while others can cause longer, heavier, or irregular bleeding. If you suspect that your contraceptive method is contributing to changes in your cycle, your doctor will assess whether the timing of your symptoms aligns with any recent changes in birth control.

Hormonal IUDs (e.g., Mirena)

Hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs) are small, T-shaped devices inserted into the uterus that release progestin to prevent pregnancy. While many users experience lighter periods or amenorrhea (no periods), some may have prolonged bleeding or spotting, especially in the first few months after insertion.

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Severe pelvic pain

• Heavy or prolonged bleeding

• Signs of infection (e.g., fever, unusual discharge)

• Suspected expulsion or inability to feel the IUD strings

Copper IUDs (e.g., Paragard)

Copper IUDs are non-hormonal devices that prevent pregnancy by releasing copper ions, which are toxic to sperm. They are also T-shaped and inserted into the uterus.

These IUDs are often associated with heavier, longer, or more painful periods, especially within the first few months after insertion.

See your doctor if you experience:

• Severe pain or cramping

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding

• Signs of infection

• Inability to feel the IUD strings

Starting or switching hormonal birth control

Changes in hormonal contraception—including starting, stopping, or switching methods—can cause temporary side effects such as headaches, nausea, or changes in menstrual bleeding.

Speak with your doctor if you experience:

• Severe or persistent headaches

• Intense or prolonged menstrual pain

• Bleeding that soaks through menstrual products in an hour

• Ongoing symptoms that interfere with your daily life

10. Medications and Supplements

Certain medications—such as blood thinners, hormonal therapies, and even some herbal supplements—can affect menstrual cycle length and flow. These may lead to heavier bleeding, more irregular cycles, breakthrough bleeding, or even missed periods.

Your doctor may assess your medical history and current medications to determine whether these factors are contributing to changes in your cycle. In some cases, a change in medication may be recommended.

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Severe menstrual pain

• Bleeding between periods

• Excessively heavy or prolonged bleeding

11. Recent Pregnancy or Postpartum Hormonal Shifts

Following childbirth, hormonal fluctuations can lead to irregular or extended menstrual cycles for several months. These changes are common, but the pattern may be unpredictable.

Tracking your cycle with tools such as the Mira Hormone Monitor, Wands, and the App can help you better understand your hormone trends until regular ovulation resumes. Supporting your recovery with prenatal vitamins, like Mira Prenatals, may also aid in restoring reproductive balance.

Common postpartum symptoms include:

• Mood swings

• Irritability or anxiety

• Irregular periods

Diagnosis is usually based on your recent pregnancy history and current symptoms. If you experience severe or ongoing issues, consult your doctor.

12. Age-Related Cycle Irregularities in Teens

Teenagers might wonder, “Why is my menstrual cycle getting longer?” Generally, teens often experience longer or irregular menstrual cycles due to an immature hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis, which regulates hormone production. This developmental stage may cause missed periods, unpredictable cycle lengths, or heavy bleeding.

A healthcare provider can typically diagnose this based on age and menstrual patterns.

Seek medical advice if the teen experiences:

• Heavy or prolonged bleeding

• Severe menstrual cramps

• Complete absence of menstruation over several months

Rare or Serious Causes of a Longer Period

13. Pregnancy Complications

Miscarriage

A miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy within the first 20 weeks. The primary symptom is vaginal bleeding, which may be accompanied by cramping, abdominal pain, or the passing of tissue.

Diagnosis may involve:

• A physical examination

• Blood tests (e.g., hCG levels)

• Ultrasound scans

If you suspect you may be having a miscarriage, seek immediate medical care or go to the nearest emergency department.

Ectopic pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus—most commonly in a fallopian tube. This condition is life-threatening and requires urgent treatment.

Symptoms include:

• Sharp or localized lower abdominal pain (often on one side)

• Vaginal bleeding or spotting

• Shoulder tip pain

• Dizziness or fainting

Diagnosis typically includes:

• A physical exam

• Blood tests

• Transvaginal ultrasound

If you are pregnant and experiencing any of these symptoms, especially severe abdominal pain or signs of internal bleeding, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Molar pregnancy

A molar pregnancy is a rare complication where abnormal tissue grows in the uterus instead of a healthy embryo. According to the NHS, this occurs due to a problem with fertilization, leading to a pregnancy that cannot develop normally.

Symptoms may include:

• Vaginal bleeding

• Severe morning sickness

• Rapid uterine growth

• Passing tissue that resembles grape-like clusters

In some cases, there are no noticeable symptoms until the first ultrasound.

Diagnosis includes:

• Blood tests (including hCG levels)

• Ultrasound scans

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience intense nausea or unusual vaginal discharge during early pregnancy.

14. Bleeding Disorders

Certain medical conditions, such as Von Willebrand disease, affect the blood’s ability to clot and may cause a period longer than usual. Symptoms often include easy bruising, prolonged bleeding from cuts or menstrual periods, and frequent nosebleeds.

Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam, blood tests to assess clotting function, and a review of medical history. Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Severe or uncontrollable bleeding

• Bleeding that soaks through menstrual products within an hour

• Blood in your stool or urine

15. Cancer or Precancerous Changes

Conditions such as endometrial or cervical cancer, as well as endometrial hyperplasia (a precancerous thickening of the uterine lining), can cause unusually long or abnormal bleeding.

Although these terms can be concerning, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for the best outcomes.

Symptoms may include:

• Unusual vaginal bleeding (between periods, after sex, or post-menopause)

• Pelvic pain

• Changes in vaginal discharge

Your doctor will likely perform a Pap smear and an HPV test to screen for cervical abnormalities. If you experience unexplained bleeding, pelvic pain, or notice unusual lumps, see your healthcare provider promptly.

16. Infection or Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

Infections of the reproductive organs can sometimes cause abnormal menstrual bleeding or irregular cycles, although this is less common.

Symptoms may include:

• Pelvic pain

• Unusual or heavy vaginal discharge

• Painful or frequent urination

• Pain during sex

• Fever

Diagnosis typically involves a clinical assessment and a pelvic examination. If you experience pelvic pain, abnormal discharge, or a fever, it is important to seek medical evaluation.

The Bottom Line

What does it mean when your period lasts more than 7 days? Sometimes it can be normal, but other times it may signal an underlying medical issue. If you feel concerned or uncertain, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor for proper evaluation and peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my period longer and lighter than normal? 

This can be caused by various factors such as hormones, stress, weight fluctuations, or certain medical conditions.

Why is my period longer this month?

Periods can be longer due to stress, medical conditions, or even natural variation. If a longer period occurs, is much heavier, lasts more than 8 days, or comes with other symptoms, speak to a doctor.

How to deal with prolonged menstruation?

You can explore lifestyle adjustments (such as adjusting your diet to have a higher iron intake), talk to a pharmacist about over-the-counter options, or speak to your doctor.

Why is my period lasting longer than usual?

Hormonal fluctuations can cause periods to last a bit longer. If it’s lasting a lot longer or you’re worried, talk to your doctor or gynecologist.