Experiencing blood clots during your period can be concerning, especially if you’re unsure what’s normal and what might indicate an underlying issue. It’s a common phenomenon, and for many women, passing small blood clots during menstruation is a regular occurrence, particularly on heavier flow days. However, when those clots become large, frequent, or are accompanied by very heavy bleeding, it’s natural to wonder, “Why Do I Have Blood Clots During My Period?” Understanding the reasons behind menstrual clots and when they might signal a need for medical attention is crucial for your health and peace of mind.
It’s important to distinguish between what’s considered normal and what might be a sign of a heavier period, clinically known as menorrhagia. If you find yourself changing your tampon or pad every couple of hours or less, or if you’re noticing blood clots that are larger than a quarter, you may be experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding. This can be not only disruptive to your daily life but also sometimes painful and indicative of an underlying condition.
Fortunately, there are many possible reasons for experiencing blood clots during your period and having heavier menstrual cycles. The good news is that many of these causes are common and treatable. Let’s explore seven potential reasons why you might be passing larger blood clots and experiencing heavier periods than usual:
1. Thyroid Imbalance and Menstrual Clots
Alt text: Diagram showing the location of the thyroid gland in a woman’s neck, highlighting its butterfly shape and position below the Adam’s apple.
Your thyroid gland, situated in your neck, plays a vital role in producing and regulating hormones throughout your body. When your thyroid isn’t functioning optimally, it can significantly disrupt your menstrual cycle. Conditions such as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid, producing too little thyroid hormone) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid, producing too much thyroid hormone) can both impact the flow and characteristics of your period, potentially leading to heavier bleeding and blood clots.
To properly diagnose a thyroid condition, your doctor can perform a thyroid panel, often referred to as a TSH panel. This blood test assesses the overall health of your thyroid. Further tests might include measuring T3 and T4 hormone levels and checking for anti-thyroid antibodies to identify autoimmune thyroid diseases like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves’ disease. If you’re experiencing unexplained blood clots during your period, especially if coupled with symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or sensitivity to temperature, discussing thyroid testing with your doctor is a good step.
2. Uterine Polyps and Fibroids: Causes of Period Clots
Alt text: Illustration depicting uterine fibroids growing in different locations within and around the uterus, showing intramural, submucosal, and subserosal fibroids.
Growths in the uterus, such as polyps and fibroids, are common culprits behind heavier periods and the formation of blood clots. These growths can develop in the uterine lining or within the muscular walls of the uterus itself. While many types of uterine fibroids are benign, submucosal fibroids, which grow into the uterine cavity, are particularly associated with heavy menstrual bleeding and larger clots. Uterine polyps, which can grow on the cervix or in the uterine lining, can also contribute to increased clotting during menstruation.
If you’re experiencing heavy bleeding, passing significant blood clots during your period, or suffering from unexplained lower back pain, it could be related to a uterine obstruction like a fibroid or polyp. A pelvic exam and imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, can help diagnose these conditions.
3. Birth Control and Changes in Menstrual Flow
Starting a new method of birth control can sometimes affect your menstrual cycle, and for some women, this can manifest as passing larger blood clots during periods. Certain types of birth control, particularly non-hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs), are known to potentially cause heavier periods and increased clotting in some individuals.
If you have recently started using a new birth control method and are noticing significant blood clots and heavier bleeding, it’s worth discussing your symptoms with your healthcare provider. They can help determine if your birth control is contributing to the issue and if it’s the most suitable option for you. There are various birth control alternatives available, and finding the right one is essential for both effective contraception and menstrual health.
4. Medications and Their Impact on Menstrual Clots
Similar to birth control, various over-the-counter and prescription medications can influence menstrual flow and potentially lead to heavier periods with blood clots. Certain types of medications, including anti-inflammatory drugs, hormonal medications like estrogen and progestins, and anticoagulants (blood thinners), can all contribute to changes in menstrual bleeding patterns.
If you’re noticing larger blood clots during your periods, it’s helpful to review the medications you are currently taking. Discuss any potential side effects with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you’ve recently started a new medication. They can advise you on whether your medication could be contributing to the blood clots and explore alternative options if necessary.
5. Miscarriage and Period Clots: What to Know
In the early stages of pregnancy, a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy (where the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus) can sometimes be mistaken for a particularly heavy period with clots. An early pregnancy loss can indeed result in larger-than-usual blood clots being passed, as the body expels pregnancy tissue.
If you suspect you might be pregnant and are experiencing heavy bleeding with clots that seem unusual, it’s essential to take a pregnancy test and consult with your doctor immediately. Distinguishing between a heavy period and an early miscarriage is crucial for your health and well-being.
6. Endometriosis and Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
Alt text: Diagram showing various locations where endometriosis can occur outside the uterus, including ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic tissues.
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside of the uterus. This misplaced tissue can cause a range of symptoms, including heavy clotting and bleeding during menstrual cycles, as well as significant abdominal pain and severe cramps. Endometriosis can be a painful and challenging condition to diagnose, but various treatments are available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
If you experience heavy, clot-filled periods accompanied by chronic pelvic pain, painful periods, or pain during intercourse, endometriosis could be a possible cause. Seeking medical evaluation from a gynecologist is important for diagnosis and management.
7. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Menstrual Irregularities
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is another common hormonal imbalance that can lead to heavy clots and bleeding during your menstrual cycle. PCOS is characterized by the development of follicles on the ovaries that often fail to release eggs regularly, resulting in irregular periods. These irregular cycles can sometimes be associated with heavier bleeding and clot formation when menstruation does occur.
If you experience irregular periods, heavy bleeding with clots, and other symptoms like acne, excessive hair growth, or weight gain, PCOS could be a contributing factor. Consulting with your doctor for diagnosis and management is recommended if you suspect you might have PCOS.
When to Seek Medical Advice for Period Clots
While passing small blood clots during your period is often normal, it’s important to be aware of when blood clots and heavy bleeding warrant medical attention. If you are concerned that your period is heavier than normal, using a period tracking chart to monitor your bleeding can be helpful for your doctor. You can track how often you need to change pads or tampons and the size and frequency of blood clots.
It’s recommended to consult a healthcare professional if you experience any of the following:
- Blood clots larger than a quarter.
- Soaking through a pad or tampon every two hours or more frequently.
- Periods lasting longer than seven days.
- Severe pain during your period that interferes with daily activities.
- Symptoms of anemia, such as fatigue, weakness, and pale skin, associated with heavy periods.
- Any sudden changes in your menstrual flow or clot frequency.
Seeking expert advice is crucial to determine the underlying cause of your heavy periods and blood clots and receive appropriate treatment. Gynecologists specializing in menstrual disorders can provide accurate diagnoses and personalized management plans to help you find relief and improve your menstrual health.
