What Causes Large Blood Clots During Your Period?

Passing small blood clots during your period is usually normal, especially on your heaviest days. However, if you are experiencing heavy bleeding with large clots, it could be a sign of an underlying issue. One common reason is a hormonal imbalance when estrogen and progesterone levels are not balanced the uterine lining can become too thick.

This can result in heavier bleeding and larger clots during your cycle. The good news is that most of these causes are treatable. If you notice unusually heavy periods or frequent large clots, it is best to consult a doctor for proper evaluation and care.

7 Reasons for Blood Clots in Periods

Know the causes of experiencing heavier-than-normal periods with large blood clots:

Thyroid Conditions:

The thyroid gland is responsible for hormone production and distribution. It can cause havoc on your cycle if it's not working properly.
Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are thyroid disorders that can impact the flow and severity of your menstrual cycle.

Polyps and Fibroids:

Fibroids can settle in the uterus, making your period heavier and longer than usual.
Heavy clotting can also be caused by uterine polyps on the cervix or the uterine lining.
Uterine obstruction like fibroid can also be the reason behind excessive bleeding, huge blood clots, stomach cramps or lower back and body pain during your menstrual period.

Birth Control:

Birth control methods can be a significant cause of passing large menstrual blood clots during periods.
Non-hormonal IUDs might cause irregular periods and blood clots.
Consult a doctor if you have an IUD and are having a lot of clotting and bleeding.

Medications:

Many over-the-counter and prescription medications can contribute to clot-filled periods.
Anti-inflammatory and hormonal medications and anticoagulants can all cause irregular bleeding with clots and menstrual flow.
If you're having trouble passing large period blood clots during your periods, consult your doctor for the medications and any potential adverse effects.

Miscarriage:

A miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy (when a fetus begins to form outside of the uterus) can often be confused with heavy period blood clots.
The pregnancy loss might sometimes result in a large menstrual blood clot.

Endometriosis:

In this condition, tissues that grow inside the uterus expand outside.
You may experience excessive clotting and bleeding, along with abdominal pain and body cramps.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

Another disorder that can cause excessive clots and bleeding throughout your cycle is PCOS.
Follicles grow on the ovaries and prevent eggs from being produced regularly, causing irregular menstrual periods.

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Other Chronic Conditions

Thyroid problems, adenomyosis, blood diseases like Von Willebrand disease, certain types of malignancies, and Pelvic Inflammatory Disease are some of the common chronic conditions that might make your period blood clot heavier than it should be.

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Conclusion

While passing small blood clots during your period can be normal, frequent large clots or unusually heavy bleeding may signal an underlying health issue. Conditions such as thyroid disorders, fibroids, PCOS, endometriosis, and even certain medications or contraceptives can contribute to these symptoms.

It’s important to pay attention to any changes in your menstrual cycle and seek medical advice if you notice anything unusual. With proper diagnosis and treatment, most of these conditions can be managed effectively, helping you maintain a healthy and balanced menstrual cycle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Small clots are common, but large ones may signal a health issue like fibroids or hormone problems. It’s best to consult a doctor if this happens frequently.

Large period clots are thick, jelly-like, and dark red. They can be coin-sized or bigger. Clots larger than a quarter should be checked by a doctor.

Yes, some medicines like birth control, hormone pills, and blood thinners can affect your flow and may cause heavier bleeding or bigger clots.

Eating healthy, staying active, using a heating pad, and managing stress can help. But see a doctor if clots are large or happen often.

Yes, if clots are caused by conditions like PCOS or endometriosis, they may affect ovulation and make it harder to get pregnant. Medical help is needed.

Large clots can mean heavy bleeding from hormone imbalance, fibroids, or other issues. If you notice this often, talk to a doctor for the right care.

Risk factors include hormone problems, fibroids, PCOS, thyroid issues, bleeding disorders, and some medicines. Heavy bleeding should be checked.

Big clumps form when blood pools in the uterus and clots before it leaves the body. It could be due to heavy bleeding or a health condition.

Sudden heavy, clotty periods may be caused by stress, new medicines, fibroids, or thyroid changes. If this continues, a checkup is important.

No, passing clots as big as a golf ball is not normal. It could be a sign of a serious problem like fibroids. See a doctor as soon as possible.