Many women experience some clotting during their periods. Clots are the body’s natural way to control excessive bleeding. Clots occur when a large amount of blood pools in the uterus before exiting the body through the vagina during menstruation, according to OBGYN.net. When blood accumulates faster than the body can transfer it out of the uterus, clots form. In most cases the clotting is a normal part of the menstrual cycle, but in some cases clotting may signal a more serious problem.
Hormonal Changes
Fluctuating hormones can cause blood clots, according to Women’s Health Zone. A hormonal imbalance can affect the frequency and intensity of a woman’s menstrual period by thickening the uterine wall. When the wall becomes too thick, a woman may experience a heavy menstrual flow and blood clots. A change in hormone levels can be attributed to menopause, ovarian cysts, ovulation problems, excessive weight loss, sudden weight gain or as a result of certain medications. When a woman experiences excessive blood clots during menstruation, a healthcare provider may suggest that she start hormone replacement therapy in order to balance her hormones.
Enlarged Uterus
A woman may experience blood clots as a result of an enlarged uterus. The Center of Endometriosis Care states that during pregnancy the uterus enlarges in order to accommodate the unborn child. In most cases the uterus shrinks back to its normal size following the delivery, but in some cases the uterus remains enlarged well after the woman has given birth. When a woman’s uterus does not shrink after pregnancy, blood collects inside the uterus, forming blood clots that exit the body through the vagina.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis can cause some women to have multiple blood clots during their menstrual period, according to the Endometriosis and Fertility Clinic. Endometriosis, a serious reproductive condition, occurs when the tissue that is supposed to grow inside the uterus grows on the outside. Endometriosis consists of a heavy blood flow and severe menstrual blood clotting. While this condition can be treated with medication in the early stages, in later stages it may require surgery.
Miscarriage
A miscarriage can cause a woman to have blood clots. According to Love to Know, heavy bleeding and clotting during pregnancy may signal an impending miscarriage. The signs of a miscarriage may vary, depending upon the individual, but some common signs are abdominal pain, pelvic pain and lower back pain accompanied by persistent heavy bleeding and/or severe clotting.
