IS this normal?? I'm kinda nervous (sory TMI)

BEfore AF started i had cramps for at least a week (not typical for me, only happened one other time).....now,
This is my third day of AF...it's been really heavy, heavier than normal...

now, it may be b/c i recently switched to pads (i used to ALWAYs and only really use tampons unless i was really light), so i may not have always realized how heavy it was

perhaps b/c i was always using tampons this never really happened before, but when i urinate, there is SO much blood coming out...it is bright right and i see like a big puddle of in in the toilet.....it's even to the point where i cough or blow my nose...i feel blood coming out! (i know, TMI)
this has been going on since Thurs. when AF started....

is this normal? I am planning on making an appointment with my doc. just for a checkup, although usually i can't get an appointment for at least a month or so....should i try to get in sooner?

Message edited 2/14/2009 1:57:51 PM.

Re: IS this normal?? I'm kinda nervous (sory TMI)

Sounds totally normal. You would be surprised at how much a tampon holds. As for the cramps, could be anything. They say a womans body changes every few years. I never had sore boobs with pms, now for the last 2 years it's a total sign of pms for me. I hope u feel better soon.

Re: IS this normal?? I'm kinda nervous (sory TMI)

I def notice a difference in flow when I wear tampons versus pads...pads it seems like much more comes out. I always thought it was because with pads it's much more normal since nothing is being shoved up there (Sorry if TMI)

Call your dr. though if you are concerned!

Re: IS this normal?? I'm kinda nervous (sory TMI)

you are probably right, thanks ladies!

Re: IS this normal?? I'm kinda nervous (sory TMI)

Sounds normal!

Re: IS this normal?? I'm kinda nervous (sory TMI)

i know for me, that is so completely normal. Were you on BC before TTC? BC causes lighter periods. Mine came back full force once I regulated. I personally wouldn't worry, but if you are worried, definitely call the OB. Good luck!

Re: IS this normal?? I'm kinda nervous (sory TMI)

before i went on bc at age 20, i spent years as a teenager having the heaviest periods. ughh..i always used pads...everything you're describing is totally normal.

i went on BC and my periods had improved so much. they also remained lighter when i went off the pill, thank god b/c what i used to deal with when i was younger was just gross

if the heavy flows last for more than 5 days...i would call the doc.

Re: IS this normal?? I'm kinda nervous (sory TMI)

definitely. i used to use pads and always noticed it like that and now that i use tampons, u dont notice it as much. so totally normal. dont worry