Are Blood Clots During Menstruation Normal? Expert Explains Potential Causes

Blood Clots During Menstruation: Menstruation is an important part of a female’s health and life. A woman’s period cycle can take a toll on her health as some women experience irregular periods, heavy period flow, extreme pain, clotting during menstruation and many others. Clotting during periods is a major concern that many women face and find the situation difficult to interpret. Is clotting during periods a health concern or a sign of an underlying condition?

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr Arpana Haritwal, Senior Consultant, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Max Smart Super Speciality Hospital, Saket explained about probable causes of clotting during menstruation. Dr Haritwali said that periods often include blood clots. Menstrual clots are common and usually harmless. Menstrual blood, uterine lining, and mucus often partially clot after evacuation.

Watch the video below to know if vaginal odour is normal during menstruation: 

Why Do Clots Occur During Periods?

To address this concern, Dr Haritwal said that blood clots occur when platelet proteins interact with calcium and other chemicals to form a fibrin mesh. Red blood cells and other blood cells get caught in this complicated network, forming a clot.

ALSO READ: How Much Blood Loss Is Normal During Periods? Know Factors That Lead To Heavy Menstrual Flow | Expert Explains

Important Menstrual Blood Clot Considerations

- Menstrual blood clots originate from endometrial shedding. Contraction of the uterine muscles to remove the endometrial lining might cause blood clots.

- Menstrual clots range in size and colour from tiny specks to large clusters. They often turn dark red or brown due to uterine oxidation.

- Menstrual blood clots, which are harmless, are common. Menorrhagia or hormonal imbalance may cause profuse bleeding and big blood clots.

Period blood clotting probable reasons (Image Credits: Canva)

- Menstrual blood clots are common, however, some medical conditions might increase their frequency or disrupt the menstrual flow. Uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, endometriosis, and bleeding are examples of gynaecological issues. Consult a gynaecologist if you have concerns about menstruation clots or other symptoms.

- Non-prescription painkillers and heat therapy like hot water bottles or heating pads may help to get relief from blood clot pain.

ALSO READ: Women Menstrual Health: Unprotected S*x To Stress; Five Reasons Of Delayed Periods

Lastly, Dr Haritwal suggested that the menstrual cycle varies by person, so what is normal for one may not be for another. Consult a gynaecologist if you have concerns about your menstrual cycle, such as excessive bleeding, extreme discomfort, or other unusual symptoms. They can diagnose and treat you properly.