When it comes to flow, periods are not one-size-fits-all. While some girls experience low flow while on their period, others suffer from heavy periods that present an array of challenges. If your child’s period seems heavier than most, an array of issues could be at the root of this problem. Depending upon the severity of your child’s symptoms, you can try an assortment of solutions to ease your struggling daughter’s discomfort.

Heavy Period Causes

Heavy periods are particularly common during the first two years of menses, reports WebMD. Because ovaries are still maturing during this period, estrogen levels are often at their highest, leading to increased period heaviness. Individuals who continue to struggle with heavy periods after these first two years may be able to attribute their period heaviness to hereditary factors as heavy periods often run in families. Some medications, including anticoagulants, can also increase period heaviness.

Reasons for Concern

Because period flow varies from person to person, you don’t need to be concerned about a slightly heavier period than normal. If your child’s period seems excessively heavy, however, you may need to seek medical attention. WebMD reports that individuals who experience a flow that exceeds the absorbency of a heavy flow pad or tampon in 60 to 90 minutes, pass large clots or experience period bleeding for more than seven days should consult their physicians.

Calling the Doctor

If your child’s flow is excessive enough to warrant a visit to the doctor, arm yourself with some information beforehand, recommends MayoClinic.com. Be prepared to tell the doctor how quickly your daughter is bleeding through her pad or tampon as well as if she is passing anything else other than blood. Providing this information when you make your appointment can better enable your child’s doctor to prepare for her visit.

Symptom-Reducing Treatments

Heavy-flow periods can be treated with medication. Many gynecologists recommend the prescription of birth control pills to control the flow of teen periods. If your child is also suffering from anemia, as is common among women with heavier-than-average periods, her doctor may also prescribe iron supplements.

Dealing With Period Pain

For many teens, a heavy period is paired with serious cramping and pain. If your daughter complains of severe cramps, you can provide her with over-the-counter analgesic medication to help alleviate her pain. Many girls also find that a hot bath or resting with a hot water bottle reduces their discomfort level and makes the period easier to bear, reports KidsHealth.