Your bleeding shouldn’t be gushingly heavy, either. If you’re running through a super thick maxi every hour, you have a very heavy period—that’s not normal. You should call your doc.

Also, watch for excruciating cramps. Cramps, of course, can be uncomfortable and somewhat gnarly. But extreme menstrual pain isn’t normal. If the agony interferes with your daily activities and Advil doesn’t help, let your doctor know.

by GL | 2/1/2016