Blood Clots During Periods: Causes, Symptoms, and Healthy Ways to Manage Them

What Are Blood Clots During Periods?

Blood clots during periods are a combination of blood, tissue, and endometrial cells that are shed each month during menstruation. Blood clots are produced when there is a heavy menstrual flow, and the body cannot produce enough anticoagulants to dissolve all of the blood cells quickly. Blood clots can vary in colour, from bright red to dark purple. Small blood clots that occur occasionally during periods are considered to be normal, but if you have frequent or large blood clots, it may be a sign of excessive menstrual bleeding.

Are Blood Clots in Menstrual Flow Normal?

Yes, the presence of blood clots in menstrual flow can be regarded as normal, particularly on heavy flow days. Small clots develop from the rapid shedding of the uterine lining when blood collects in the uterus and is unable to exit the body immediately. Unlike large clots, these are usually harmless. However, if you are passing large amounts of clots very frequently or experiencing severe pain with the clots, fatigue, or heavy bleeding, consult a doctor.

Understanding blood clots during periods

The hormones in your body cause the lining of your uterus to start shedding. During this process, some small blood vessels start bleeding. This results in your body using plasma and platelets to form blood clots in order to prevent excess loss of blood. Thick blood clots during periods can get collected inside your uterus and just stay there. Typically, blood clots in periods occur when the flow is heavy. Blood clots are defined as ‘abnormal’ when they are regularly bigger than a quarter. 

What causes blood clots during periods?

Here are some health conditions that can cause blood clots during periods:

Hormonal changes

A healthy balance of hormones in your body is vital for maintaining uterus health. An imbalance of certain hormones like progesterone can also lead to heavy menstruation and irregular blood clots.

Uterine fibroids

Blockages like uterine polyps and fibroids can stop your uterus from contracting normally. This means that your uterus will not be able to push the blood out as quickly as it normally does, increasing the risk of the formation of blood clots. This blockage can also cause a heavier flow, leading to blood pooling.

एंडोमेट्रिओसिस

This condition causes the tissues of the uterine lining to grow outside of the uterus. This can lead to several symptoms that can worsen during periods, including:

• Dysmenorrhea or excruciating pain during periods
• Menorrhagia or heavy bleeding during periods
• Pain and cramps in the lower back
• Fertility issues

Bleeding disorders

Bleeding disorders can also cause heavy menstrual flow as they disintegrate the coagulation proteins that are required by the uterine lining to stop excessive bleeding. For example, health conditions such as platelet function disorder can lead to heavy menstruation.

Symptoms Associated With Blood Clots During Menstruation

Blood clots in menstrual flow can also be associated with other symptoms, which indicate the intensity of bleeding and uterine activity. Here are some common symptoms that may occur due to blood clots and menstruation:

• Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

Soaking through pads/tampons quickly often happens at the same time as the formation of blood clots.

• Lower Abdominal and/or Pelvic Pain

The strong contractions of the uterus needed to push out blood clots can cause cramping and discomfort.

• Back Pain/Pressure

The intense uterine contractions required to expel clots can often radiate pain to the lower back.

• Fatigue/Weakness

Chronic blood loss can contribute to low iron levels and long-term exhaustion.

• Irregular or Prolonged Menstrual Periods

Menstrual periods that last longer than usual may lead to increased clotting.

Women who experience these symptoms with blood clots in period blood frequently or see an increase in the severity of these symptoms should consult a physician.

When Should You Worry About a Blood Clot in a Menstrual Period?

It is natural to have occasional small blood clots during periods. However, any of the following signs are possible indicators of an issue that needs medical help:

• Passing multiple large clots on a regular basis (Note: If you experience clotting during pregnancy, seek immediate emergency care)

• Having profuse bleeding (meaning soaking through a pad/tampon, etc.)

• Experiencing extreme menstrual cramps

• Pain that interferes with normal activities (going to work and/or school)

• Any bleeding with either extreme tiredness, dizziness, shortness of breath, or any combination of these symptoms (this combination may indicate Anaemia).

If you experience sudden, abnormal changes in your menstrual cycle and/or pass a blood clot in menstrual period at times other than your expected time of the month, these types of changes indicate an underlying problem with the hormones or the uterus.

Healthy Habits to Reduce Blood Clots During Periods

Following a consistent lifestyle and health habits will regulate your menstrual cycle and may gradually help manage the symptoms and amount of clots that you will have during your periods.

Diet changes that support healthy menstrual flow

Many women can benefit from including foods that contain iron, vegetables (especially dark leafy greens), fruits, and whole grains in their diets. Also, reducing the consumption of high-sodium and processed foods may help reduce heavy bleeding and inflammation.

Staying hydrated and improving circulation

Drinking enough fluids supports overall blood circulation. Proper hydration can help ensure smooth menstrual flow and may reduce the intensity of cramps associated with passing clots.

Physical activity and light exercise during periods

Gentle movements during the first several days of your menstrual cycle and during your period can improve the flow of blood and reduce congestion in your uterus; this may result in a decrease in the amount of cramps you experience, and in the amount of clots you have.

Managing stress and sleep patterns

Inadequate or disrupted sleeping patterns and chronic stress are two significant factors that can disrupt hormonal balance and ultimately, your menstrual flow. Therefore, prioritising sleep and relaxation is beneficial to your overall health and will help to maintain a healthy menstrual cycle.

Managing blood clots during periods

Here are some habits and practises that you can incorporate to manage blood clots during periods.

Medication options

Your doctor may prescribe hormonal medications to regulate and balance your hormone levels to reduce excessive bleeding during periods. You may also be asked to have NSAIDs during periods to reduce cramps, pain and discomfort.

Healthy lifestyle changes

You should also adopt healthy habits in your daily life that may help with abnormal blood clots during periods, including:

• Drinking lots of water
• Eating a healthy iron-rich diet
• Exercising regularly
• Avoiding aspirin (It may make bleeding worse)

Period blood clots are normal and are a normal symptom of heavy menstrual flow. However, if you notice a pattern of heavy flow or abnormal blood clotting, then you should immediately visit a medical expert. Following the doctor’s instructions and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help you get back on your feet easily.

Hormonal and medical treatments

If you have or have had excessive bleeding, your doctor may prescribe a hormonal or medical therapy to assist you in regulating your menstrual cycle.

When medical procedures may be recommended

Doctors should consider the types of procedures that a woman may need if her clotting is due to an underlying medical condition, such as endometriosis or fibroids, and significantly affects her quality of life.

Small and consistent changes can be the key to managing blood clots during periods. Support your body with the correct habits and provide timely care to it. This will help you improve your menstrual comfort, balance, and overall health.

What to Remember About Blood Clots During Periods

Blood clots during periods are often a natural part of the menstrual cycle and, in many cases, nothing to worry about. Small clots usually reflect a heavier flow and the normal shedding of the uterine lining. However, consistent changes such as passing large clots, excessive bleeding, or experiencing intense pain and fatigue should not be ignored. Listening to your body, following healthy daily habits, and seeking medical advice when symptoms feel unusual can make a meaningful difference. With the right care and awareness, most menstrual concerns can be managed effectively, helping you maintain comfort, balance, and overall well-being.

When to seek medical attention?

While blood clots in periods are a normal part of a menstrual cycle, you must visit your doctor if you feel a lot of pain. You should know about the following information while speaking with your doctor:

• How long your period lasts normally
• How heavy your menstruation flow is
• If you have been feeling pain
• List of medications you take
• List of prevalent medical conditions

After proper medical test and analysis, your doctor may prescribe:

• Hormonal therapy
• सर्जरी
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Tranexamic acid
• Contraceptives
• Antifibrinolytic medicines