What are blood clots during periods?

Blood clots during periods are thick clumps of blood that can sometimes come out during menstruation.

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30-07-2024 Team Medicover gynecology

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Banam Sravanthi

Understanding Blood Clots During Periods

Seeing blood clots during your period can be surprising, but, it's a normal part of menstruation. These clots are usually made up of blood, tissue and proteins that help our body to regulate bleeding. While it's common to have small clots from time to time and harmless, frequent or large clots might signal a severe health issue.

Menstrual blood clots are a common concern for many women. This blog will explore the reasons behind blood clots during periods, when they are normal and when you should be concerned.

What is a Menstrual Blood Clot?

A menstrual blood clot is a thick, jelly-like lump of blood that can appear during your period. These clots are a natural part of menstruation and usually form when menstrual blood pools and thickens before it leaves the body. They are usually made of blood, tissue from the uterine lining and proteins that help control bleeding.

Small clots (about the size of a coin or smaller) are normal, especially on heavier flow days. But, if the clots are larger than a quarter and occur frequently or are accompanied by severe cramps or heavy bleeding, it could indicate a serious issue such as hormonal imbalance, fibroids or other health conditions.

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Why does Blood clotting occur during Periods?

Blood clotting during periods happens when the uterine lining sheds more quickly than the body can expel it. Several factors can contribute to this phenomenon:

Hormonal Imbalance: Imbalance in estrogen and progesterone levels can lead to heavier periods and clot formation.
Fibroids: The tumors growths in the uterus can cause heavy bleeding and blood clots.
Endometriosis: This condition causes the uterine lining to grow outside the uterus, leading to heavy bleeding and clotting.
Miscarriage: In early pregnancy, miscarriage can result in heavy bleeding and clots.

When Should I Worry About Blood Clots in My Period?

While occasional small clots are normal, some signs indicate you should seek medical advice:

Large Clots: Clots larger than a quarter can be a sign of an underlying issue.
Heavy Bleeding: Soaking through one or more sanitary pads or tampons every hour.
Severe Pain: Intense cramping and pain not relieved by over-the-counter pain medications.
Irregular periods or sudden changes in your menstrual cycle or Periods lasting more than 7 days.
A known history of fibroids, polyps or bleeding disorders.
Other symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath or irregular periods may also warrant medical attention.

Reasons for Blood Clots in Periods

Blood clots during your period can happen for a few common reasons include:

Uterine Fibroids: These are tumors growths in the uterus that can lead to heavier bleeding and clotting.
Hormonal Imbalances: When the hormones that regulate your period are out of balance, it can cause heavier and more irregular bleeding.
Endometriosis: This condition occurs when tissue lining inside the uterus grows outside of it and causes heavy bleeding and clots.
Polyps: Small growths on the lining of the uterus can also cause heavier periods and clot formation.

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How to Manage Blood Clots During Periods?

If you are dealing with blood clots during your period, here are some tips to help manage the situation:

Track Your Cycle: Keep a record of your menstrual cycle, paying attention to any changes in how heavy your flow is or the size of the clots.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking sufficient amount of water can help thin your blood, which may reduce the size of clots.
Maintain a Healthy Diet: Focus on a balanced diet that includes iron-rich foods to help combat any fatigue from heavy bleeding.
Consult a Doctor: If you experience any irregular changes in your menstrual cycle, consult your doctor for proper advice and treatment options.

Conclusion

Blood clots during periods is a normal part of menstruation. But, it is important to know when they might indicate a more serious issue. By knowing the reasons for blood clots in periods and when to seek medical advice, you can take better care of your menstrual health.

If you're worried about blood clots during your period or notice any changes in your cycle, it's a good idea to speak with a gynecologist for personalized advice and treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Blood clots during periods are thick clots of blood that can sometimes come out during menstruation.

Yes, it's normal to have blood clots during periods, especially on heavy flow days.

Blood clots form when blood flow is heavy and the blood doesn't come out of the body quickly.

Not necessarily. Blood clots can be normal, but if they are very large or accompanied by severe pain, it's good to talk to a doctor.

Blood clots can vary in size from small, like a pea, to larger, like a quarter.

Hormonal changes, fibroids, and certain medical conditions can cause heavier periods with blood clots.

In most cases, blood clots during periods do not affect fertility, but if you have concerns, it's best to consult with a healthcare provider.

Staying hydrated, maintaining a healthy diet, and using menstrual products that suit your flow can help reduce blood clots.

If you have very large blood clots (bigger than a quarter) or they are accompanied by severe pain, dizziness, or heavy bleeding that lasts longer than usual, you should see a doctor.

Heavy periods with blood clots can sometimes lead to iron-deficiency anemia if not managed properly.