You’re not the only woman to have ever noticed blood clots during your period.
The clumps of blood might seem kind of scary when you first notice them, but knowing what to expect and which changes might be worrisome can help give you some peace of mind.
If you want to know exactly what is “normal” here, read on for why some of us bleed blood clots during menstruation, as well as when it may be time to speak with a professional about your marks!
So without further adieu, let’s cut to the chase and make you an expert on your clotting friends.
Blood Clots In Periods?
…what actually is a blood clot?
The lining of your uterus is shed during your period and, in addition to blood, you may see small clots that resemble jelly or pieces of tissue.
They are called blood clots and they occur when the menstruation blood passing through your cervix starts to coagulate. This thickening is normal during the process of a menstrual cycle.
Now, let’s discuss what is the normal thing. Menstrual clots are normal, and they tend to be roughly quarter-sized, dark red to blackish in color, and intermingled with endometrial tissues.
As your period goes on, they can begin bright red and end dark red or even be nearly black. This change in color is fine and it relates to the oxidation of blood.
Causes of [Blood Clots in Menstrual Flow]
Confused as to why you could be passing clots on your period — it could be any number of things, most of them not serious. Here’s a quick rundown:
Loss of the Uterus Lining
Your body starts getting itself ready to maybe be pregnant each month by becoming thicker than it should uterine lining. If no pregnancy happens, the lining is released (yes, period). These clots are just a part of this process.
Capillary Bleeding
When the endometrium is shed, little blood vessels, or capillaries break too and as the blood unceases your body the blood can tally up because it is residing in a pool. This is completely natural and usually nothing to be concerned about.
Heavy Menstrual Flow (Menorrhagia)
The heavier your period, the more likely you are to have larger clots. This happens as the blood flow faster than your body is able to thin it naturally using anticoagulants. Heavy periods are routine, but they can be a sign of an underlying problem if other symptoms are also experienced.
Hormonal Imbalance
Your menstrual cycle is heavily influenced by hormones. If your hormones are out of balance, it can result in increased thickness of the blood and clot formation. This could be due to stress, weight fluctuations and other medications which can mess up your hormones that in turn affect your period.
When to Worry: Unusual blood clots
It is normal to experience blood clots during your period, but there could be instances where they may point out something more critical. This is when you should start worrying
Clots Larger Than a Quarter
The size of the clots are cues too; if you start seeing things that are bigger than a quarter, that’s your sign. Those bigger ones, your body could be trying really hard to get that blood out since it might not have the capacity for a fast enough blood flow (making you more likely to have something like fibroids or endometriosis.)
Excessive Number of Clots:
No more than a smattering of clots coming out and not especially big was the normal but if your period regularly includes these, or there are large ones this could be indicative of a problem.
Accompanying Symptoms
If you experience agonizing period pains, nausea or vomiting when your period is due (or passing huge clots) this step in the cycle could be a cause of something like endometriosis or fibroids. You should change a pad or tampon every couple of hours and probably see your doctor if you use more than that.
Underlying Conditions:
So are conditions like Endometriosis (where the uterine lining tissue grows outside of the uterus) or Fibroids, non-cancerous growths in your uterus that won’t subdue bleeding. Adenomyosis, in which the uterine lining grows into the muscular wall of the uterus, can cause similar symptoms.
Their in-house physicians will often ask about other common issues which can also be the taproot of the same are – This could be Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), Thyroid disorders, Cervical Cancer (less likely).
When to Call for help From a Health Pro
As the saying goes, better to be safe than sorry. If experiencing another symptoms similar to a lot of these, make sure that you begin the individuals Health care service provider
- Clots larger than a quarter: This could be a sign of something serious and you should seek medical help.
2. If you have heavy bleeding- changing your pad or tampon every hour or two, or if the bleeding lasts longer than seven days, that is a medical no-brainer.
3. We all get painful periods but if your pain is so intense that you are about to vomit as well, you might want to check this out.
If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see your healthcare provider to find out what is causing your problem and if the appropriate treatment can be recommended for you.
Surgical and Medical Treatment of Microscopic MPE
Therefore, when your blood clot with an underlying cause is concluded by a healthcare provider do not worry There are various treatments for you:
Hormonal Treatments
Combined Oral Contraceptive Pills (COCs): These can regulate your menstrual cycle and make sure you don’t bleed heavily. They also help prevent forming too many large clots by balancing out your hormones.
Non-Hormonal Treatments:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen: These can help decrease blood flow and relieve pain during your period. Another choice is Tranexamic Acid (a hemostatic agent) that arrests heavy bleeding.
Surgical Options:
Surgery is sometimes required, such as in cases when you have fibroids or other structural abnormalities that can hold a pregnancy. The doctor can talk to you about the best ones.
Supplements:
If you are having heavy periods and losing lots of blood, then your doctor may prescribe you iron tablets to prevent anemia. The last thing you need is to feel tired and weak from anemia, so be sure to get enough iron.
How to Relieve Period Cramps and Clots
Heavy Periods with ClotsMenstruating full stop is a Game of Ephemeral Thrones, but when you have heavy periods and clots to manage; this series takes on an additional level of intensity.
Here are some tips that may help in managing your fleshy monthly catharsis:
Diet and Life Style: It is an effective way to eat iron-rich food, keep yourself hydrated and reduce stress in order to maintain a good period flow. Exercising can also get your period back on track and relieve some discomfort.
Keep a diary of your cycle: Record when to help yourself spot patterns or abnormal changes. Thankfully, there are many apps to help you log your symptoms and track changes.
What Should You Do Talk to Your Doctor: If you are experiencing changes in your period or if things are getting worse, be sure to speak with your care provider. They’re there to help!
Conclusion
While seeing blood clots in your period can be scary, they are a typical symptom for most women. Knowing what is normal and when you should go see your doc can change how you manage your periods.
As always, err on the side of speaking with a healthcare provider if you are ever in doubt. At last but not the least, health for next.
COMMON QUESTIONS (FAQs)
What is Normal Blood Clot During Periods?
Blood clots during your period that are perfectly normal Blood clots in menstrual blood (which look like bold, thick jelly) are considered to be quite normal for women having periods. Usually, it is small and no bigger than a dime with deep red color.
Stress: Can larger clots and heavier periods be a sign?
Well, stress impacts your hormones — which can cause heavier periods and more clotting.
Is there anything that can make the clots smaller and less often?
Reducing the size and number of clots can be done by stress management, eating well, keeping hydrated, and exercising. If you are worried about it, speak with your doctor about options for treatment.
Is It OK For Clots To Change In Color Over The Entire Period?
While a doctor is the only person that can truly tell you what this blood is, clots often change color as your period does. They may be bright red and turn dark red or almost black as the blood oxidizes.
Is it possible for a lifestyle change to lead to better menstrual health, and lesser clotting?
Absolutely! A balanced diet, an active lifestyle, and methods of handling stress may help in the regulation of your menses and frequency of bleeding/effects.