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Severity of vaginal bleeding

For most women, saturating more than 8 pads or super tampons in an 8-hour period is not normal and is considered to be severe bleeding. Abnormal vaginal bleeding varies depending on what is normal for a particular woman.

When reviewing the following guidelines, take into account how heavy your normal menstrual flow is.

  • Severe bleeding: Soaking more than 8 maxi or super pads or super tampons in 8 hours, or passing blood clots for more than 8 hours.
  • Moderate bleeding: Soaking more than 8 pads or super tampons in 24 hours
  • Mild bleeding: Soaking fewer than 8 pads or super tampons in 24 hours
  • Minimal bleeding: "Spotting" or just a few drops of blood from the vagina
Note:

Vaginal bleeding refers to bleeding from inside the vagina, not from a cut or scrape near the vagina.

Author Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD
- Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Kirtly Jones, MD
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last Updated July 11, 2007

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: July 11, 2007
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.