what causes blood clots during menstruation

Blood clots during menstruation are a normal occurrence and are rarely a cause for concern. They happen when the uterine lining sheds increased amounts of blood, which pools in the uterus or vagina and begins to coagulate, much like it would on an open skin wound. The consistency of menstrual blood varies both throughout the period and from one period to another, and people may experience a heavy flow containing menstrual clots one month, and a lighter flow with no clots the next month. However, if the clots are larger than a quarter in size, very frequent, occur with an abnormally heavy flow that requires a person to change their pad or tampon at least every 1–2 hours, or occur with significant pain, it is advisable to seek medical advice. Some potential causes for large blood clots during menstruation include uterine obstructions, hormonal imbalances, and fibroids. Additionally, certain medications, such as anti-inflammatory medications, hormonal medications, and anticoagulants, can contribute to abnormal menstrual flow and bleeding. In rare cases, blood clots during menstruation can signal a medical issue, such as von Willebrands disease, a condition in which the blood does not clot properly. If you are concerned about your menstrual blood clots, it is best to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause.