Noticing clots in your menstrual blood can be unsettling, especially if it catches you off guard from time to time. However, in most cases, menstrual clots don't necessarily have to be a cause for concern. Find out why and how they form, and when to pay attention.
What a blood clot looks like
A menstrual blood clot is a mixture of blood cells, tissue from the uterine lining, and proteins in the blood that help regulate its flow. They usually have a thick, lumpy, or fibrous texture and can vary in shape and color. You may encounter bright red menstrual clots, but they can also be colored dark red to almost black.
Menstrual red flags, or 7 signals to watch out for
How blood clots form
Menstrual blood clots typically form during heavy bleeding when the uterus cannot drain blood quickly enough. The blood can then temporarily accumulate in the uterus or vagina and begin to clot. The thick, lumpy structure of the clot helps slow down blood flow and prevent excessive blood loss. This is common, especially during the first two to three days of menstruation, when bleeding is usually most intense.
Blood clots themselves do not have to be a cause for concern; they are a natural part of the body's defense mechanism.
Read how to prevent leaks during menstruation and how to best manage an accident.
When to pay attention
Although blood clots during menstruation are normal and every woman may experience them from time to time, their occurrence can sometimes indicate a health problem, and it is important not to overlook them. Pay attention if, in your case, blood clots:
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Clots are larger than approximately 2.5 cm
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Clots appear very often (throughout the menstruation period)
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Clots occur with a very heavy blood flow, and you need to change menstrual products at least every 1-2 hours or use double menstrual protection (e.g., both a tampon and a menstrual pad simultaneously)
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Clots occur with significant pain
If you experience larger clots for at least several menstrual cycles in a row, inform your gynecologist as soon as possible to address any potential health issues in time.
Clots can be related to the following health conditions:
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Uterine polyps or fibroids, growths connected to the inner wall of the uterus that extend into the uterine cavity
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Endometriosis, a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterine area. Symptoms of endometriosis usually include heavy and painful menstruation, painful intercourse, chronic fatigue, or fertility problems.
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Adenomyosis, a condition in which the uterine lining grows into the muscular wall of the uterus, which can then be thicker and lead to heavier flow during menstruation.
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Some medications can also affect the course of menstruation
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Products in the article: Carefree Subscription, BIO tampons, BIO pads, Premenstrual Complex
Femvie products that can help you
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Frequently asked questions
What are organic menstrual products?
Organic menstrual products are made from certified organic cotton without pesticides, plastics, or bleaching chemicals. GOTS certification guarantees eco-friendly processing from the field to the product.
Are organic tampons safer than conventional ones?
Yes. Conventional tampons may contain trace amounts of pesticides and synthetic fibers. Femvie organic tampons are certified, hypoallergenic, and gentler on intimate areas.
How does the Femvie subscription work?
With the Carefree Subscription, you set the delivery frequency, and your favorite organic products arrive automatically. You save time and never run out of menstrual products.
