Blood clots during menstruation are a common occurrence and are usually not a cause for concern. Menstrual clots are gel-like blobs of coagulated blood, tissue, and blood that are expelled from the uterus during menstruation. They form when the uterine lining sheds increased amounts of blood, which pools in the uterus or vagina and begins to coagulate. The consistency of menstrual blood varies both throughout the period and from one period to another, and changes may occur due to diet and lifestyle factors.
However, passing large clots may be a sign that something is wrong. Some medical conditions can cause large blood clots, often alongside heavy menstrual bleeding or period pains. The following conditions may cause abnormal menstrual clots:
- Uterine polyps or fibroids
- A blockage in the uterus
- Hormonal imbalances
- Endometriosis
- Adenomyosis
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Cancer
Certain medications, such as anticoagulants, hormonal medications, and anti-inflammatory medications, can also contribute to abnormal menstrual flow and bleeding. If you regularly have large clots or are concerned about your menstrual clots, it is advisable to seek medical advice from a healthcare provider.