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When you're going into a doctor, it's always best to be prepared. Make a physical list of the symptoms you've been experiencing. Try to be as specific as possible. Don't be embarrassed; your doctor has heard it all. For instance, you might write down, "heavier flow (on heavy days, bleeding through a pad every hour for 3 or 4 hours in a row), more cramping, blood clots the size of quarters, feeling weak and tired, blood flow lasting 12 to 14 days." It can help to count the number of pads or tampons you use while you're bleeding. It's also important to note any major changes in your life, such as big events that have caused you stress and sudden weight gain or loss. Ask around in your family to see if anyone else has similar problems, as menstrual problems can be genetic. If you think you may be suffering from a anemia, ask your doctor about having a blood test. A blood test can determine the level of iron in your blood. If you have low iron, your doctor will likely recommend increased iron in both your diet and the supplements you take. Usually, to help diagnose the problem, your doctor will want to conduct a physical examination, including taking a pap smear. A pap smear is when your doctor takes a small scraping of cells from your cervix to test for any problems. Your doctor may also take tissue from your uterus to biopsy. You may also need an ultrasound or a hysteroscopy. With a hysteroscopy, a tiny camera is threaded into your uterus through your vagina, allowing the doctor to look for problems.
Make a list of symptoms. Ask about a blood test for anemia. Expect a physical examination.