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Menstrual cycles differ among women in terms of duration, flow, and frequency. While it may be alarming to observe blood clots during menstruation, it is generally a normal occurrence, especially during heavy flow days. This is a natural part of the body’s coagulation process as the menstrual blood passes through the uterus.
However, if you observe unusually large clots or significant changes in your menstrual pattern, it could be a sign that warrants medical attention. Large or painful clots may be associated with conditions such as uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, or endometriosis.
For those experiencing unusually large clots or intense discomfort during their periods, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation for proper diagnosis and guidance.
Causes of Blood Clots During Heavy Menstruation
Several conditions can lead to abnormally large blood clots or heavier menstrual flow than usual. Some medical conditions that may cause these symptoms include:
- Uterine fibroids: Noncancerous growths within the uterus that can result in heavy bleeding and clotting, as well as pelvic discomfort and pressure.
- Endometriosis: A condition where the tissue that typically lines the uterus grows outside it, leading to heavy menstrual bleeding, clot formation, and pelvic pain.
- Adenomyosis: A condition where the tissue lining the uterus (endometrial tissue) grows into the uterine muscle wall, causing heavy periods, clotting, and often severe menstrual cramps.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A hormonal disorder characterised by irregular periods, often accompanied by heavy bleeding.
- Hormonal imbalance: When hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone, fluctuate, they can affect the thickness of the uterine lining and cause irregular menstrual bleeding.
- Blood disorders: Certain blood disorders, such as von Willebrand disease or thrombocytopenia, can impair the blood's ability to clot properly, leading to increased menstrual bleeding and clots.
Treatment Options
The treatment approach depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the symptoms. Possible treatments include:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen can alleviate menstrual cramps and reduce blood flow, which may also decrease clotting.
- Tranexamic Acid: This medication helps reduce heavy menstrual bleeding by promoting blood clotting. It is typically taken during menstruation to minimise blood loss and clotting.
- Hormonal birth control: Hormonal contraceptives, including birth control pills, patches, or hormonal IUDs, can help regulate menstrual cycles, reducing both heavy bleeding and clotting by stabilising hormone levels and thinning the uterine lining.
- Treatment of underlying conditions: Managing conditions such as fibroids, adenomyosis, endometriosis, or thyroid disorders with medication or other interventions can help alleviate symptoms.
- Lifestyle modifications: Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, managing stress, and avoiding smoking can contribute to better management of heavy menstrual bleeding and clotting.
- Iron supplements: If heavy menstrual bleeding leads to iron deficiency anaemia, taking iron supplements can help prevent or treat this condition.
- Surgical interventions: In some cases, surgery may be required to address underlying conditions causing heavy and clotted menstrual bleeding, such as endometrial ablation, hysterectomy, or myomectomy.
When to Consult a Doctor
If you find yourself needing to change your tampon or pad more frequently than every two hours, or if you pass clots the size of a quarter or larger, it is important to seek medical advice.
Make an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals
It is essential to communicate openly with your doctor about any symptoms you are experiencing to ensure the right diagnosis and treatment. Your healthcare provider is there to support you and offer the care you need.
Contact us today to book an appointment with our team of gynaecologists or to learn more about our Obstetrics and Gynaecology Services at your nearest Gleneagles Hospital.
