Menstrual cycles vary greatly from person to person and so does the appearance of period blood clots. Mostly considered normal, the clots in period blood that come along with the disposal of menstrual blood can offer insight about your health. This is usually depending on their size, frequency and colour. Understanding the different types of period blood clots and their implications can help you determine whether they’re part of your body’s natural process or something to talk to the doctor about.
What Are Period Blood Clots?
Period blood clots consist of the blood and tissue that is shed from the uterus during the menstrual cycle. Natural anticoagulants are produced by the body to stop clotting during the cycle but these anticoagulants may take time to work, especially if the flow is too high, and this leads to blood clots. The occasional clots are generally considered normal, especially on heavy flow days. It’s the unusually large or consistent clots that you need to keep a look out for as they may point to underlying health issues.
Period Blood Clot Types
The many kinds of period blood clots and their potential health implications are as follows:
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1. Small, Jelly-like Clots
What They Look Like: jelly like blood clots during your periods are small and squishy.
What They Imply: Small clots are normal, particularly on the days when your period is heavier. Simply put, they are caused by your body's incapacity to produce enough anticoagulants during a strong flow.
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2. Big Clots the Size of Grapes
What They Look Like: Period blood clots bigger than a grape or a 50p coin.
What They Imply: Menorrhagia, or heavy menstrual bleeding, may be a reason for large clots. Also related to hormone imbalances, polyps, or uterine fibroids.
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3. Vibrant Red Clots
What They Look Like: Clots that are bright red in colour.
What They Imply: Usually an indication of a healthy cycle, bright red/crimson clots showcase fresh blood. In rare instances, though, it may indicate problems like endometriosis or miscarriage if it is accompanied by discomfort or heavy bleeding.
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4. Black or Dark Brown Clots
What They Look Like: Dark coloured clots, either brown or black.
What They Imply: Older blood that has taken longer to leave the body typically makes up dark clots. Persistent black period blood clots, albeit usually benign, can indicate a uterine obstruction or hormonal imbalance.
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5. Tissue-Like Consistency in Clots
What They Look Like: Clots that have a tissue-like or stringy appearance.
What They Imply: These clots may be uterine lining remains, which is common with menstruation. They may, however, be a sign of endometriosis or miscarriage if they occur frequently and are accompanied by excruciating pain.
What Causes Abnormal Period Blood Clots?
Several factors can lead to abnormal clots during menstruation, including:
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1. Hormonal Imbalances: An imbalance in oestrogen and progesterone can affect uterine lining development and shedding.
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2. Uterine Fibroids or Polyps: These benign growths can cause heavier periods and larger period blood clots.
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3. Endometriosis: This condition involves uterine-like tissue growing outside the uterus, leading to painful periods and abnormal clots seen in period blood.
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4. Miscarriage: In some cases, large clots with tissue may indicate a miscarriage.
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5. Adenomyosis: A condition where the uterine lining grows into the uterine wall, causing an enlarged uterus, prolonged heavy bleeding, large clots, and a uterus up to two to three times its normal size.
Even while sporadic clots are usually not cause for concern, some symptoms call for a doctor's appointment:
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Period blood clots bigger than a 50p coin, particularly if you see them frequently
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Severe cramping or agony that goes along with clots.
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Unexpected modifications to your clotting or menstrual flow.
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Excessive bleeding that, for a few hours, soaks through a pad or tampon every hour.
Heavy bleeding, usually soaking through your period care product, can also include period blood clots
What To Do About Period Blood Clots?
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1. Monitor Your Cycle: To keep an eye on your flow and spot trends, use period tracking applications.
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2. Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water helps increase blood flow and prevent clots.
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3. The Right Period Care Products: For controlling high flows and clots, products such as leakproof period panties are great choices.
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4. Speak with a Medical Professional: Consult a doctor if your clots are large, frequent, or accompanied by other symptoms.
Normal Or Not?
Period blood clots are often a natural part of menstruation, particularly on heavier flow days. However, paying attention to their size, frequency, and colour can help you better understand your menstrual health. If you notice anything unusual or concerning, don’t hesitate to consult a doctor for guidance. Understanding your body is the first step to ensuring optimal health and wellbeing.
Sources :
Apollo Spectra - Blood Clots During Periods
VeryWell Health - Are Blood Clots Normal During a Period?
Health - What Do Blood Clots During Your Period Mean?
March Health - What Are Blood Clots During Periods
