Why do I have heavy periods and clots?

Definition of heavy periods

Menstrual flow is considered heavy when sanitary protection needs to be changed frequently, ranging from a light flow, manageable with panty liners, to a heavy flow requiring a change every hour or two. This variability reflects the diversity of menstrual experiences among women.

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Clot formation

Blood clots during menstruation result either from the uterine lining shedding without completely breaking down, or from rapid blood clotting if the uterine lining is shed too quickly for the natural anticoagulant , plasmin, to work effectively. These clots are particularly common during heavy periods or after a period of rest, such as first thing in the morning upon waking.

Various causes

Factors contributing to heavy periods and clot formation include the phase of the menstrual cycle , with heavier flow in the middle; use of a copper IUD , known to increase menstrual flow; medical conditions such as endometriosis , uterine fibroids or polyps , and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) .

Medical consultation recommended

Heavy periods and the presence of clots can sometimes signal an underlying pathology , especially if they are accompanied by severe abdominal pain , fatigue , dizziness or other symptoms of anemia . It is advisable to consult a doctor in these cases for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Blood clots during menstruation: Should you be worried?

Common phenomenon

The presence of clots during menstruation is a common and generally benign phenomenon, resulting from blood clotting . This phenomenon is more marked during periods of heavy menstrual flow.

Causes

Clot formation can be exacerbated by a very heavy flow that exceeds the body's ability to produce enough natural anticoagulants , causing blood to clot in the uterus.

When to consult

It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional if the clots are particularly large (more than 2.5 cm in diameter), frequent or accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as an unusual odor, severe pain or signs of anemia .

Hemorrhagic periods

Periods are considered hemorrhagic when they are excessively heavy, last more than 7 days, or are difficult to manage with standard sanitary protection . These symptoms may be accompanied by systemic signs such as fatigue or dizziness , indicating a possible iron deficiency .

Blood clots during menstruation: when to consult?

Normality of clots

The formation of clots during menstruation is a natural and common process, especially on days with heavier flow. These clots are usually a sign of an active clotting mechanism aimed at limiting bleeding.

Other medical causes

Beyond the natural process, blood clots during menstruation can also be a sign of medical conditions such as uterine fibroids , polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) , adenomyosis , a side effect of certain medications, or bleeding disorders .

Appearance of clots

Clots can vary in color (from bright red to black), size, and consistency (gelatinous to stringy). These variations are influenced by the rate of blood drainage and the possible presence of endometrial tissue .

When to worry

A medical consultation is recommended in the presence of large clots (greater than 2.5 cm), changes requiring frequent sanitary protection , symptoms of anemia or pain affecting daily activities. A health professional will be able to assess these symptoms in context, reassure the patient and suggest appropriate treatment if necessary.