"Why Do Blood Clots Occur During Menstruation?"

Menstrual Blood Clots: Causes and Solutions

In normal circumstances, menstrual bleeding should be without blood clots or contain only a small amount of them, lasting for 3-7 days. However, some women experience heavier bleeding with numerous blood clots and prolonged menstruation. This may indicate a constitution prone to blood stasis or a symptom of uterine fibroids. Let's delve into the possible causes and solutions.

Understanding Menstrual Blood Clots

Menstruation occurs due to the shedding of the uterine lining, which mixes with blood to form menstrual fluid. Larger fragments of the uterine lining may appear as blood clots, which is a normal physiological phenomenon. However, excessive bleeding accompanied by numerous blood clots indicates blood stasis. In such cases, consider taking traditional Chinese medicine to stop bleeding initially. Following this, consult a local hospital for a thorough examination to rule out other potential causes.

The presence of blood clots in menstrual blood is related to the volume and speed of bleeding. When bleeding is heavy and rapid, blood clots may form. These clots often indicate heavier bleeding. The menstrual cycle typically lasts 2-7 days, with 3-5 days being common. Prolonged menstruation exceeding 7 days is abnormal and should be addressed promptly.

Prolonged menstruation and excessive blood clots can stem from various factors such as low estrogen levels, uterine fibroids, polyps, endometritis, and intrauterine devices. Consult a gynecologist for a diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

Causes of Excessive Menstrual Blood Clots

1. Qi Stagnation: Qi directs blood flow. Emotional distress or liver qi stagnation can hinder blood circulation, leading to blood clots.
2. Cold Congealing: Cold can cause blood to coagulate. External or internal cold factors can lead to the formation of blood clots during menstruation.
3. Qi Deficiency: Excessive fatigue or long-term illness can weaken qi, impeding blood circulation and leading to blood stasis.
4. Blood Heat: External or internal heat factors, including spicy foods or emotional stress, can cause blood to heat up and coagulate.

Managing Excessive Menstrual Blood Clots

Excessive menstruation and blood clots are often caused by weakness of the body's constitution, qi deficiency, dietary imbalances, or prolonged illnesses affecting the spleen. Other factors include excessive heat in the body, emotional stress, and postpartum blood stasis. Treatment aims to nourish yin, cool blood, invigorate blood circulation, remove blood stasis, tonify qi, and stop bleeding.