Can you use a Menstrual Cup if You Have a Lot of Blood Clots During Your Flow?

What is a menstrual cup?

A menstrual or period cup is a tiny, flexible cup that is meant to be put into the vagina during periods and is composed of silicone or latex rubber. The menstrual cup differs from a pad or tampon in that instead of absorbing period blood, it collects it, which you may discard after usage. The cup comes in three sizes: small, medium, and big, depending on the rate of blood flow, the location of the cervix, and the user's age. You may pick the size that best suits your needs.

Also, keep in mind that the cup should be removed every 12 hours or less to avoid health problems like Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).

What are menstrual clots?

The hormones in your body cause the lining of your uterus to shed during menstruation and small blood vessels leak during this procedure. Plasma and platelets work together to build blood clots to keep your body from losing too much blood.

When you have a certain volume of blood sitting around, blood clots will develop. Blood clots are expected to form in some cases, such as when you cut yourself, but when it comes to period clots, though, if you're having a lot of bleeding, it gathers inside your uterus and forms a clot while it lies there.

Are they normal?

Clotting is a typical side effect of excessive menstrual flow, which many women may encounter at some time in their life. For some women, having a heavy period is unavoidable, and a little clotting every now and again is quite acceptable.

If you're concerned about your flow, observe clots larger than your thumbnail on a regular basis, or notice a change or rise in clots, arrange an appointment with your doctor. Many women view heavy, with a lot of blood clots as a normal part of life, but they can be a sign of an underlying health problem that can be addressed in many circumstances.

What can cause abnormal clots?

Abnormal clots are greater than a quarter of an inch in diameter and pass out more persistently. Your menstrual cycle might be affected by physical and hormonal causes, resulting in a heavy flow. Menstrual clots are more likely to form when you have a lot of flow.

• Endometriosis - Endometriosis is a disorder in which endometrial cells, which look like the uterine lining, develop outside the uterus and into the reproductive canal and this can induce massive clots and irregular bleeding.

• Adenomyosis - Adenomyosis is a condition in which the uterine lining develops into the uterine wall for unclear causes and the uterus enlarges and thickens as a result of this. This frequent disorder can cause the uterus to expand two to three times its normal size, in addition to persistent, heavy bleeding.

• Fibroids - Fibroids are muscular tumours that form in the uterine wall and are usually noncancerous. They can cause massive clots in addition to severe menstrual flow and affect up to 80% of women by the age of 50, and while the cause is unclear, genetics and the female hormones oestrogen and progesterone are thought to have a part in their formation.

• Hormonal imbalances - The uterine lining requires a balance of oestrogen and progesterone to develop and thicken appropriately. You might have heavy menstrual bleeding with clots if you have too much or too little of one or the other.

• A miscarriage - A significant number of pregnancies end in miscarriage and many of these miscarriages happen before a lady even realises she's pregnant. When an early pregnancy fails, significant bleeding, cramps, and clots might occur.

• Thyroid issues - The thyroid gland in your neck regulates metabolism, and up to 34% of women with thyroid problems have excessive menstrual flow and, as a result, blood clots throughout their periods.

• Peri-menopause - Heavy menstrual flow and blood clots are common symptoms of perimenopause, the 4-8-year period between menopause and menopause.

Can you use a cup even if you have blood clots?

A menstrual cup is designed with a lot of capacity to hold period blood and it fairs very well against heavy bleeding. A menstrual cup is more than capable of holding normal clots without overflowing. However, if you notice your cup leaking multiple times and there are big, abnormal clots sitting in them, it may be time to move up a cup size and consult a doctor.

Which cup should you pick out?

An excellent cup for both beginners and advanced people is the Carmesi Menstrual Cup which comes in three different sizes. They are soft and comfortable and are great for using against a heavy flow.

When should you consult a doctor?

Blood clots during your period are a common occurrence during the menstrual cycle. However, if the size or quantity varies, it might indicate an underlying issue, and you should seek medical advice.