Blood Clots During Periods: What's Normal and When to See a Doctor

Noticed a jelly-like clot in your period blood and felt a little panicked? You're not alone. That's actually a quite common reaction the first time it happens. Truth is, small clots can show up in a lot of normal cycles. But when they appear bigger than usual or happen every single cycle, that's worth paying attention to. 

What Are Blood Clots During Periods? 

Blood clots are gel-like clumps that form when your uterine lining (also called endometrium) sheds faster than the blood can flow out, so it clots before it actually leaves your body. They're usually dark brown or dark red, and the size and texture can vary from person to person.

Are Blood Clots During Periods Normal? 

The size of the blood clots is very important in determining whether the clots are normal or not. Clots that are not more than a quarter of an inch are classified as normal. The formation of such clots usually occurs at the onset of menstruation, particularly on heavy days. 

What Causes Blood Clots During Periods?

The following are some of the major causes of blood clots in periods:

• Diseases: Some diseases that affect the uterus cause the development of blood clots. The conditions that cause enlargement or exert pressure on the uterus will increase bleeding and lead to clot formation. They include:
  • Fibroids - Benign muscle tumours that develop in the walls of the uterus
  • Endometriosis - Development of uterine tissue outside the uterus
  • Adenomyosis - Development of the uterus lining inside the uterine walls
  • Polyps - Development of growths on the cervix or inner walls of the uterus
• Hormonal Factors: Diseases that affect the thyroid glands can affect menstrual flow.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as anti-inflammatory medications and anticoagulants, cause abnormal menstrual flows.
• Birth Control Methods: Sometimes the non-hormonal IUD can cause heavier bleeding and more clotting. Thus, changes in menstrual clotting may be linked to switching from one type of birth control to another. 
• Blood disorders: Von Willebrand disease is a defect in blood clotting that can cause heavy menstrual bleeding. 

What Do Different Sizes of Blood Clots Mean?  

Clot size can tell you something useful about your period, but on its own it's incomplete. Pay attention to how much you're bleeding, how often clots appear, and what else you're experiencing alongside them. Pea-sized clots on your heaviest flow days are common and typically not serious. 

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (ACOG) considers clots the size of a quarter (about 2.5 cm) or larger a possible sign of heavy menstrual bleeding. This could sometimes be associated with uterine fibroids, adenomyosis or a hormonal imbalance.

Symptoms That May Accompany Blood Clots During Periods

Blood clots in periods can occur on their own or alongside other menstrual symptoms, including:

• Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
• Weakness or fatigue
• Dizziness during menstruation
• Symptoms related to anaemia such as shortness of breath
• Cramping so severe that it interferes with daily activities

If clots are accompanied by an increase in either pain or fatigue, it may suggest heavy blood loss.

Treatment for Blood Clots During Periods

Treatment options for period blood clots are based on the cause and the severity of symptoms and whether there is any plan for conceiving. 

Some possible treatment options for blood clots in periods include:

• Hormonal therapy: Birth control pills, hormonal IUDs and other hormone-based treatment methods can be considered to regulate periods and hormone balance to stop excessive bleeding and clot formation.
• Non-hormonal solutions: Antifibrinolytic drugs or anti-inflammatory medicine can be used to limit menstrual blood loss without impacting your hormones.
• Iron supplements: In cases where the heavy bleeding results in anaemia, the use of iron supplements becomes necessary to regain energy levels.
• Specific treatments for any underlying condition: Conditions like fibroids, endometriosis, or adenomyosis often need their own targeted treatment plan.

When Should You See a Doctor? 

Consult a gynaecologist doctor, if you experience:

• Severe bleeding
• Severe abdominal or pelvic pain
• Very big blood clots in your period continuously
• Clots with odour
• Clots larger than a quarter coin
• Anaemia symptoms
• A change in the menstrual cycle
• Suspected pregnancy

Conclusion

Passing small clots during your period is usually nothing to worry about. But if you are experiencing consistent large clots, heavy bleeding, or persistent pain, these are signs that should not be ignored. If this sounds like what you’re going through, it should be checked out. See a doctor to get a proper diagnosis of what’s going on. And if you’re looking for the top gynaecologist in Bangalore, choose a specialist who can identify the root of the problem and direct you to the appropriate treatment for your situation.