Should I be worried about passing blood clots during my menstrual period?
Answer From Tatnai Burnett, M.D.
Most often, passing small blood clots during your period isn't a cause for concern. The amount, length and frequency of menstrual bleeding vary from month to month and from person to person.
But if you pass large blood clots that are bigger than a grape, seek medical care. Large blood clots can be part of a heavy period, which may be a sign of a serious medical issue. When a period is heavier than usual, it also might cause you to soak through one pad or tampon every hour for many hours in a row.
Your doctor or care team member can find out if a medical problem is the cause. You might need a blood test to check for anemia, a condition that can cause you to feel weak or tired. You also might need other exams, such as an ultrasound of the pelvis.
Sometimes, hormonal medicines are used to control heavy menstrual bleeding. Certain other medicines also may help.
With
Tatnai Burnett, M.D.
Show References
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- Borhart JC. Approach to the adult with vaginal bleeding in the emergency department. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Feb. 10, 2023.
- AskMayoExpert. Abnormal uterine bleeding: Premenopausal women. Mayo Clinic; 2022.
- Signs and symptoms of bleeding disorders in women. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/blooddisorders/women/symptoms.html. Accessed Feb. 10, 2023.
- FAQs: Heavy menstrual bleeding. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/heavy-menstrual-bleeding. Accessed Feb. 14, 2023.
- Your menstrual cycle. Office on Women's Health. https://www.womenshealth.gov/menstrual-cycle/your-menstrual-cycle. Accessed Feb. 14, 2023.
Original article: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menorrhagia/expert-answers/blood-clots-during-menstruation/faq-20058401