Heavy Periods in Perimenopause: Why It Happens & What You Can Do Naturally

For many women, the first sign of perimenopause isn’t hot flushes or mood swings, it’s a period that suddenly becomes heavier, longer or unpredictable.

You may notice:

• Bleeding that feels excessive
• Clotting
• Shorter or longer cycles
• Leaking 
• Needing to change pads/tampons more often
• More pain or cramping
  
  

If that sounds familiar, you’re not imagining it and you’re not alone.
Heavy bleeding and irregular periods in perimenopause are among the most common hormonal changes women experience in their 40s.

Why Heavy Periods Happen During Perimenopause

Perimenopause is a transition, not a sudden switch. Hormones fluctuate rather than decline smoothly, which means your menstrual cycle may feel unpredictable.

The main drivers are:

Oestrogen Dominance

Oestrogen helps build the uterine lining. During perimenopause, levels can spike, causing the lining to thicken more than usual, leading to heavier periods and clotting.

Low Progesterone

Progesterone balances oestrogen. When ovulation becomes irregular, progesterone drops, making cycles heavier, longer, or more erratic.

This hormonal imbalance often explains symptoms like:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• PMS mood swings
• Breast tenderness
• Water retention
• Anxiety or irritability
  
  

Signs Your Period Needs Support

Your body may be signalling an imbalance if:

• Bleeding lasts more than 7 days
• You’re soaking through products every 1–2 hours
• You’re passing large clots
• You need double protection or period underwear overnight
  

• You feel exhausted, dizzy or foggy (possible low iron)
  

These symptoms are common in perimenopause, but you don’t have to struggle through it.

How to Naturally Reduce Heavy Periods in Perimenopause

Many women find relief by addressing hormone imbalance gently and consistently.

1. Support Hormone Balance

Herbal and nutritional support may help regulate hormones, reduce heavy flow and create more predictable cycles. Many women look for natural perimenopause treatment before considering medication and there are options that can help.

2. Reduce Inflammation & Cramping

Magnesium (especially forms like magnesium glycinate) is well-known for supporting muscle relaxation and reducing severe cramps, making it one of the most researched natural perimenopause supplements.

3. Address Stress + Sleep

Stress can worsen perimenopause symptoms and make hormonal changes feel more extreme. Calming the nervous system can help reduce PMS, pain, irritability and disrupted sleep.

The Perimenopause Period Bundle

To make support simple, our naturopaths created the Perimenopause Essentials Bundle for women experiencing heavy periods, irregular cycles and hormonal imbalance.

It includes:

This combination is ideal for women looking for natural menopause support and perimenopause supplements Australia that don't just mask symptoms but work with the body.

Most women notice improvements within 8–12 weeks of daily use.

Perimenopause Period Bundle

Shop Perimenopause Period Bundle

When to Speak With a Practitioner

If heavy bleeding is affecting your daily life or leaving you fatigued, a consultation can help you understand what’s driving your symptoms and what support is right for you.

Chat with a naturopath now

You’re Not “Losing Control”, Your Hormones Are Changing

Heavy periods in perimenopause are common but they’re not something you just have to endure.

Knowledge is empowering. Support is available. And feeling like yourself again is possible.