Do I need any tests if I have heavy periods?

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A doctor is likely to do an internal (vaginal) examination to check on the size and feel of the uterus.
A blood test to check for anaemia is usually advised. Some women bleed so heavily that the body cannot replace the blood loss quickly enough. This can lead to anaemia which can cause tiredness.

If the vaginal examination is normal (as it is in most cases), and you are under the age of 40, no further tests are usually needed. The diagnosis is usually 'dysfunctional uterine bleeding' and treatment may be started if required.

Further tests may be advised for some women, especially:

Women over the age of 40 who develop heavy periods.
Any woman who has an increased risk of developing cancer of the uterus (for example, women who have never had children, women with a family history of cancer of the uterus or colon, women with polycystic ovary syndrome, women taking the drug tamoxifen. See separate leaflet called 'Cancer of the Uterus' for details.)
Any woman where a doctor detects a large or abnormal uterus, or who has other symptoms which may indicate an underlying problem. For example, if you
bleed between periods, or have irregular bleeding.
have bleeding or pain during, or just after, sex.
have pain apart from normal period pain.
have any change in your usual pattern of bleeding, particularly if you are over 40.
have symptoms suggesting a hormone problem or blood disorder.

If tests are advised they usually include one or more of the following: