What is Clotted Period Blood?
Clotted period blood is jelly like clumps of coagulated blood released during your period. These clots shed from the uterine lining. They are deep red in color and smaller than the size of a quarter. During menstruation, estrogen is at an all time high releasing hormones to thicken the uterus.
Clotted period blood usually discharges in the beginning days of menstruation when most women typically experience heavier bleeding.
When is Clotted Period Blood a Concern ?
Commonly blood clots and heavy bleeding are due to hormonal changes that naturally occur during the time of the month. Blood clots can be a concern for some women if:
-The heavy bleeding continues for more than 7 days
-The heavy bleeding requires you to change your pad or tampon every hour
-Consistent spotting in the middle of your menstrual cycle
-You experience cramping with significant pain
What are Other Underlying Conditions that Cause Blood Clots?
- Uterine Polyps/ Fibroids: Uterine polyps and fibroids are noncancerous tumors inside the uterus, within the uterine walls or on its outer surface. Polyps and fibroids are influenced by hormones and are common in women but they can cause blood clots and heavier bleeding. Most of the time they are harmless but symptoms can be more serious if you experience uncomfortable or painful cramping.
- Hormonal imbalances: Conditions like Hypothyroidism, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, and Menopause can onset irregular shedding of the uterine lining resulting in blood clots.
- Endometriosis: Endometriosis is a term to describe when uterine tissues grow on the outside of the uterine cavity rather than normally growing on the inside. Usually they form on the fallopian tubes and ovaries which can trigger excessive clotting.
- Menorrhagia: Menorrhagia is a medical term for menstrual periods that are abnormally heavy. When women are experiencing uterine problems or their hormones are imbalanced, menorrhagia can cause excessive blood loss and cramping.
Are Menstrual Blood Clots Normal ?
In general, blood clots aren’t something to worry about. If you believe your periods are irregular, or you are concerned about painful cramps or other symptoms, go ahead and schedule a visit with your doctor.
How Can You Prevent Clotted Period Blood?
To prevent an uncomfortable menstrual period it is essential to create a healthy lifestyle, limit stress, and maintain a healthy wholefood diet that can balance hormones making blood clots less troublesome.