Q: My periods usually last for 12 days. Why are they so long?

A:Do consult and get examined by a gynaecologist to find out the cause of prolonged menses. It could be infection, hormone imbalance, anaemia or even high blood pressure, or some times a uterine fibroid or ovarian cyst. You need investigation like a transvaginal ultrasound and also keeping a menses diary. Treatment is simple depending on the cause, and periods can be kept in check with medications like progesterone pills for a few months or antibiotics in case of infection. First the cause needs to be ascertained.