Taking soy supplements isn't likely to cause heavier periods. Although soy does contain compounds that can mimic estrogen in the female body, it shouldn't change the volume of menstrual bleeding. That being said, the effects of soy on the body, particularly in high amounts, aren't well understood, so talk to a doctor before taking soy or any other dietary supplement.
Evidence
A study published in the September 1994 "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" found that high intakes of soy could suppress both follicle-stimulating hormones and luteinizing hormones. With a decline in these particular hormones, you may experience longer menstrual cycles, but they shouldn't affect the amount of bleeding.
Abnormal Bleeding
Besides soy, other dietary factors don't typically cause abnormally heavy periods. While this type of vaginal bleeding can still be considered normal, it could be an indication of an underlying disorder, so consult your doctor. Uterine fibroids, uterine polyps, adenomyosis and anovulation can all contribute to heavy menstrual bleeding. Even certain medications can change the amount of bleeding during menstrual cycles.
Medications
Treatment for heavy menstrual bleeding is dependent on the cause, but your doctor may recommend certain medications until the problem is corrected. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs --- or NSAIDs, as they're often called --- can reduce blood loss, as well as relieve any associated cramps or discomfort. Oral contraceptives can regulate your cycle, reducing excessive bleeding, and you may also benefit from iron supplements, especially if you've lost a great deal of blood.
Surgery
If medications fail to improve abnormal vaginal bleeding, a surgical procedure may be in order. Dilation and curettage --- also known as a D&C --- is sometimes used to remove excess tissue along the lining of the uterus that could be contributing to your condition. If a polyp is causing the blood loss, this too can be removed. Ablation and resection of the endometrium can also help, but this often reduces your ability to become pregnant, according to MayoClinic.com, so isn't often used until other methods have proven ineffective. Your doctor can help you determine the best approach to care.
References
- "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition"; Biological Effects of a Diet of Soy Protein Rich in Isoflavones on the Menstrual Cycle of Premenopausal Women; Aedin Cassidy, et al.; September 1994
- MayoClinic.com; Menorrhagia (Heavy Menstrual Bleeding); June 2011
- Medline Plus; Menstrual Periods -- Heavy, Prolonged or Irregular; September 2009
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