Blood Clots and the Menstrual Cycle

What You Should Know

During your period, your body will release anticoagulants that maintains a consistency of blood flow. However, If the blood flow is heavy, the anticoagulants may not have had a chance to thin the blood, in this case, the blood may clot as it is passed. Anticoagulants that the body produces to allow blood flow and prevent clots are not as effective during heavy menstrual cycles.

It is normal to have blood clots during your menstrual cycle. This is how the lining of your Uterus cleanse itself. A doctor's visit might be necessary if the frequency of blood clots increase, because serious health problems could be developing.

Reasons to be concerned

Pregnancy

When pregnancy is a possibility, it should always be tested for. Problem pregnancies, miscarriages, and ectopic pregnancies can all be associated with clotting.

Miscarriages

Is the spontaneous loss of a fetus before the 20th week of pregnancy. Clotting prevents the placenta from receiving blood.

Hormonal changes

A hormonal imbalance of progesterone and estrogen is another reason for passing clots during a period. Hormonal changes can be caused by a number of things including menopause, excessive weight loss or gain, or as a result of some medications

Polyps

Polyps or other growths inside the uterus can act as an obstruction to the outflow of blood during menses. This can increase clotting. These growths can also bleed themselves.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis results when cells from the lining of the uterus grow into other areas outside of the uterus, such as your ovaries, pelvis or fallopian tubes.

Birth Control

Birth control methods such as oral contraception, the use of an intrauterine device (IUD) and the use of an injected contraceptive are additional reasons that might cause the passing of blood clots during a period.

Fibroid Tumors

Called leiomyomata, fibroids are very common. They are benign growths of muscle that form spheres occupying space within the normal muscle of the uterine wall. If they interfere with the ability of the entire uterus to contract, bleeding will increase and clots are likely to form.

The best thing to do when you suspect that you're experiencing abnormal bleeding during your menstrual cycles is to consult with your health care provider. A doctor will be required for proper diagnosis and treatment.