Worried About Period Blood Clots? All You Need To Know About Them

Crimson or brick red. Watery or jelly-like. Heavy or light. Your period flow can vary in colour, consistency, and intensity. So, if your menstrual fluid feels more cranberry jam than juice, it’s another one of Aunt Flo’s regular flips.

You can spot these gel-like blood blobs on your sanitary pad or tampons. At times, they can add to your period discomfort. However, the question is if they are a cause of concern? We got in touch with Dr Loveleena Nadir, Consultant Gynaecologist, Fortis La Femme, Greater Kailash to investigate. Read on for her insights:

What Are Menstrual Blood Clots?

Consider menstrual clots a result of your body’s defence mechanism. “Your blood has a natural tendency to clot in order to prevent death from excessive bleeding,” says Dr Loveleena. However, the body recognises that your menstrual flow isn’t dangerous. “As a result, the anti-coagulants in the blood break down the clots to help them pass. In case of a heavy period, it may not be possible to disintegrate all the clots and that’s why they come out as jelly-like blobs,” she explains.

Your body also sheds off uterine tissue during periods. So, the clot can be blood-covered remains of your uterine lining as well. 

Normal Vs Abnormal Clots

“It’s absolutely normal for you to experience blood clots, particularly on heavy period days,” says Dr Loveleena. “They may look like stewed strawberries or clumps of jam, and range from bright red to maroon in colour. While you may experience bigger clots at the start of your period, their size may reduce towards the end,” she adds. 

However, she warns that if the clots are unusually big or are accompanied by heavy flow, fever, agonising cramps, or dizziness, you must see a doctor. Bigger clots could be a sign of miscarriage if you’re trying to get pregnant. They could even indicate an underlying health condition like fibroids in the uterus, endometriosis or a tumour.

Can A Menstrual Cup Manage Clots?

“It’s easier to manage a heavy period accompanied by blood clots with a menstrual cup,” says Dr Loveleena. Here’s why these reusable wonders are even better than your disposable period aids according to the doctor:

They Can Keep You Comfy

Pads and tampons work by absorbing your period blood. They’re unable to soak in the clots and this can lead to irritation. On the other hand, menstrual cups collect blood and can keep you comfortable.  

They Can Prevent Staining

Menstrual cups create a suction grip with your pelvic floor muscles to collect period blood. Unlike pads and tampons, they don’t move. A high-grade cup like Sirona’s Menstrual Cup can provide leakproof protection for 8-10 hours straight. It can also hold up to 28cc of blood in one go and can easily carry the clots without any leakages.

You Won’t Have To Carry Your Period Stack

Changing tampons and pads more frequently is a part of life if you have a heavy period flow. However, menstrual cups are reusable and can be emptied, washed with water, and worn again. So, you never have to worry about carrying or finding pads/tampons. 

Surely, making the sustainable switch to menstrual cups is a blessing for the planet. But it is one for you too. After all, it is the answer to all your period woes.

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