Uterine Fibroids and Blood Clots During Period
Like uterine fibroids, a period can be challenging— pain, cramping, and fatigue are typical monthly menstrual symptoms. Often, things are not entirely straightforward, leading to questions without readily available answers. One common question asked is what about jelly-like blood clots during your period and how they fit into your menstrual cycle symptoms. It's generally considered normal to have jelly-like blood clots during your period, but the presence of stringy blood clots can indicate various factors.
However, if you begin to notice an increased amount of bright red period blood with clots beyond your usual experience, it can be a cause for concern. If you discover blood clots the size of golf balls during your period, it is advisable to schedule a visit to the doctor.
So what does it mean when you are passing blood clots on your period? Let’s find out!
What are common period symptoms?
A menstrual cycle, more commonly known as a period, is the monthly release of blood that has built up on the inner lining of the uterus. At the beginning of your cycle, blood begins lining the inside of your uterus in preparation for pregnancy, but when your hormone levels decrease, signaling that pregnancy has not occurred, the menstrual period begins.
Periods typically last between three to seven days and include four distinct phases, all of which are accompanied by their own unique symptoms. These phases, collectively known as the menstrual cycle, reflect the intricate interplay of hormones and physiological changes that occur within a woman's body.
Studies show that around 84.1% of women experience menstrual pain at some point in their life. Other common period symptoms include acne flare-ups, fatigue, bloating, constipation, headaches, mood swings, back pain, trouble sleeping, and more. While many women primarily experience these symptoms during their periods, conditions such as uterine fibroids, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and more can lead to intensified cramps, irregular symptoms, and longer periods.
What are blood clots?
A blood clot is a cluster of blood cells your body produces to prevent excessive bleeding. Frequently, blood clots develop in your blood vessels following surgery or injury, but they can also form in other locations, such as on your skin, to staunch bleeding.
Sometimes, when you are on your period, you might observe the passing of small to medium-sized blood clots. Blood clots generally appear similar to others, but in this case, they’re being passed out of your body. While this is typically normal, certain factors can turn the presence of blood clots into a reason for concern.
Why do I get blood clots during my period?
As the lining of your uterus sheds, small blood vessels may also bleed in the process. In response, blood clots form serving as a natural mechanism to prevent excessive or abnormal bleeding.
Another reason you may be experiencing blood clots could be the way blood accumulates inside your uterus before menstruation begins. Blood clots are normal, particularly after sitting for a long time or if you have a heavy period. In fact, clotting is usually a normal symptom, as coagulate proteins come together to form a clot so your body can properly cleanse itself of coagulated blood.
If you notice excessive clotting, try massaging your pelvic area to improve blood circulation and flow. Additionally, ensure you have an adequate intake of vitamins A, B, C, and D, as they can help regulate heavy menstrual flow. If heavy clotting and excessive flow are impacting your quality of life, talk to your doctor about solutions for heavy menstrual periods.
Do Fibroids Cause Blood Clots During Your Period?
Blood clots larger than a quarter— equivalent to the size of a golf ball — could indicate the presence of uterine fibroids, clusters of muscle cells attached to your uterus. These noncancerous tumors can cause various symptoms like pain, cramping, frequent urination, heavy periods, and, notably, the development of large and painful blood clots.
As fibroids tend to increase menstrual flow, blood clots are quite common. Usually, there aren’t sufficient protein cogulates to manage heavy menstrual cycles, which leads to the development of larger blood clots, as a natural mechanism to restrict excessive blood loss during menstruation. According to one study, up to 80% of women with uterine fibroids experience blood clots during their period.
When should you seek medical help?
In certain rare cases, excessive blood clotting can become a health concern, often linked to underlying uterine conditions such as uterine polyps, endometriosis, adenomyosis, hormone imbalances, or an enlarged uterus, in addition to fibroids.
Blood clots are typically a symptom of such conditions when they exceed the size of a quarter, are accompanied with pain, and occur during frequent heavy periods that require pad and tampon changes every one to two hours. If blood clotting during your period escalates to the point of severe hemorrhaging, it is imperative to seek immediate emergency assistance and consult your doctor for potential solutions.
While blood clots during your period are common for many different reasons, it's advisable to assess whether this symptom is within a healthy range or a cause for concern. Blood clots during periods can be unsettling, they are often caused by hormones, heavy flow, and possibly fibroids. If you have any doubts about your health or have additional questions, it's always wise to promptly consult a healthcare professional.
