Are Blood Clots In Periods Normal?

As a natural part of the menstrual cycle, women experience a range of physical symptoms, including cramps, bloating and changes in mood. 

However, some women may also experience the presence of blood clots during their period, which can cause concern and confusion. While blood clots during menstruation are often normal, they can also be a sign of an underlying health issue requires medical attention.

Blood clots during periods are common in most women. Clots are blobs of coagulated blood & tissue that look like gel and come out during periods with normal blood flow. They vary in colour from bright to dark red. While it might be scary to look at, it is natural and you don’t have to worry.

Understanding the causes and characteristics of blood clots during periods can help women make informed decisions about their menstrual health and seek appropriate treatment if necessary.

Causes For Blood Clots During Periods

During periods, the lining of the uterus which is blood & tissue sheds and collects at the bottom of the uterus. It waits for the cervix to contract and expel this. To help in the breakdown of this thickened blood, the body releases anticoagulants for thinning it. But, when the blood flow is more than the body’s ability to produce anticoagulants, menstrual clots are released.

Clots during periods are most common during heavy blood flow days. Women with heavy bleeding also tend to experience clots a lot more than women who have regular flow. If you are a heavy bleeder, you must read this.

Normal & Abnormal Clots

So, clots are normal but there is something called normal & abnormal, so let’s find out about that.

Normal clots are about the size of a 25pc coin and occur occasionally during your period. Mostly during the heavy days of periods. Abnormal clots are larger in size and occur throughout your period days. If you have reasons to believe you suffer from abnormal clots, do visit your gynaecologist.

Underlying Reasons For Abnormal Clots

There are several reasons why a woman may experience blood clots during her menstrual cycle. Some of the common causes of blood clots during periods include:

• Hormonal Imbalances: 

Hormonal changes in the body during the menstrual cycle can cause the uterine lining to shed irregularly, leading to the formation of blood clots.

• Uterine Fibroids: 

In the uterus, noncancerous growths known as uterine fibroids form. They can cause heavy bleeding and the formation of blood clots during periods.

• Endometriosis: 

Endometriosis is a condition where the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside of it, causing pain and heavy bleeding during periods. Blood clots may potentially form as a result of this.

• Adenomyosis: 

The disorder known as adenomyosis occurs when the lining of the uterus transforms into the muscular wall of the uterus. This can cause heavy bleeding and blood clots during periods.

• Miscarriage: 

 In some cases, blood clots during periods may be a sign of a miscarriage or a chemical pregnancy.

• Use Of Hormonal Birth Control: 

 Hormonal birth control methods like the pill or IUD can cause changes in the menstrual cycle, including the formation of blood clots.

 It's important to note that while blood clots during periods can be normal, they can also be a sign of an underlying health issue. Women who experience heavy bleeding, severe cramps, or large blood clots should consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment.

Also read: Heavy Bleeding In Young Girls

Complications Of Heavy Bleeding & Abnormal Clots

Heavy bleeding and abnormal blood clots during periods can lead to several complications. Some of the complications include:

• Anemia: 

Heavy bleeding during periods can cause anemia, a condition where the body doesn't have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to the body's tissues.  This may result in weakness, tiredness and other health issues.

• Pain and Discomfort: 

Large blood clots can cause pain and discomfort during periods, making it difficult for women to carry out daily activities.

• Interference with Daily Life: 

Heavy bleeding and abnormal blood clots during periods can interfere with daily life causing women to miss work, school or social activities.

• Decreased Quality of Life: 

Women who experience heavy bleeding and abnormal blood clots during periods may experience a decreased quality of life due to the physical discomfort and emotional stress associated with these symptoms.

• Infertility: 

 In some cases, conditions that cause heavy bleeding and abnormal blood clots during periods such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids can also lead to infertility.

It's important for women who experience heavy bleeding and abnormal blood clots during periods to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can evaluate the underlying cause of these symptoms and provide appropriate treatment to prevent complications and improve overall health and quality of life.

Also read: Natural remedies for PCOS

Treatment For Heavy Periods With Blood Clots

Each case is different and your doctor will advise what is best for you. Here are the common treatments that are suggested: 

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation during periods.
• Hormonal birth control methods like pills, patches, or IUDs can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce heavy bleeding.
• Tranexamic acid is a medication that can be prescribed to reduce heavy bleeding during periods.
• Surgery may be necessary to remove uterine fibroids or treat other underlying conditions that cause heavy bleeding and blood clots.
• Endometrial ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that can remove the uterine lining to reduce heavy bleeding during periods.