Passing blood clots during menstruation is usually just part of your normal monthly routine. But at other times, what appears to be a period clot may be something else entirely, such as a possible sign of a miscarriage. If you are pregnant this sure brings chills down your skin. So, if you are wondering how you determine when to brush it off and when to go in and see a physician, keep on reading because knowing the difference between normal menstrual clots and tissue related to miscarriage can help you make wise choices about your body.
What Are Period Clots?
According to Mayo Clinic, during menstruation, your body sheds the uterine lining, and this often includes a mix of blood, mucus, and endometrial tissue. When bleeding is heavy, blood can pool in the uterus and form clots. These clots are usually:
Dark red or maroon
Gel-like in texture
Coin-sized or smaller (less than 1 inch)
Passed in the first few days of a heavy flow
Hormonal changes, fibroids, or such conditions as endometriosis may thicken the blood so it clots more easily, but they're generally still not something to worry about unless other symptoms occur, such as severe pain or profuse bleeding.
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What Does a Miscarriage Clot Appear Like?
In an exclusive interaction with the editorial team of Onlymyhealth, our expert, Dr Suma Varsha, IVF Specialist at Ferty9 Fertility Centre, Vijayawada, explained to us that in early pregnancy (particularly before week 12), a miscarriage will feel like a heavy period. But there are some distinctions in what passes:
Larger clots or tissue: You might see fleshy or greyish tissue that is either fetal or placental in origin.
More severe cramping: The cramp could be more intense and longer-lasting than normal menstrual cramps.
Heavy bleeding suddenly: Particularly if it occurs after a missed period or one that came late.
Passing a gestational sac: In early miscarriages, there may be a small sac to see.
When Should You Be Concerned?
Here's an expert-approved guide for you that it's time to go see a doctor if you experience any of the following:
Golf-ball-sized blood clots
Bleeding that soaks through a pad every hour for hours at a time
Severe pelvic or belly pain
Dizziness, weakness, or fainting spells
Flesh that doesn't look like usual menstrual clots
A suspected or known pregnancy
If you suspect that you are pregnant and have any of these symptoms, you should immediately visit your doctor to confirm that there are no complications like a missed miscarriage or infection.
What Else Could It Be?
Additionally, Dr Varsha elucidated that other conditions can also replicate the symptoms of miscarriage and heavy periods, including:
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Uterine fibroids or polyps
Ectopic pregnancy
Hormonal imbalances
Blood clotting disorders
A correct diagnosis usually involves a pelvic exam, ultrasound, and occasionally blood work to determine hormone or hCG levels.
Bottomline
It's not all clots during your period are cause for concern; however, if you might be pregnant, or the clots appear strange in size, colour, or texture, don't be afraid to talk to a health care professional. Your body usually gives you hints about what's wrong. Always stay vigilant and reach out for help!