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Pallavi Mehra • 29 Mar 2025

Health Quiz: Missed Period And Dark Blood Clots? Here’s What Your Body Might Be Telling You

Health Quiz: Missed Period And Dark Blood Clots? Here’s What Your Body Might Be Telling You (Image Credits: iStock)

What is the most common reason for black or brown blood clots after a missed period?

A. Pregnancy complications
B. Hormonal imbalance
C. Uterine fibroids
D. All of the above
Answer: D. All of the above
Most women experience irregularities in their menstrual cycle at some point. However, seeing dark brown or black blood clots after a missed period can be alarming. While in many cases, this may not indicate a serious issue, understanding potential causes and warning signs is crucial.

What Are The Possible Causes?

1. Hormonal Imbalance

"Hormonal fluctuations, particularly in estrogen and progesterone, can cause irregular bleeding," explains Dr Astha Dayal. "Conditions like PCOS, stress, or even dietary changes may lead to missed periods followed by clotting. Certain medications can also impact hormonal balance, triggering atypical bleeding."

2. Uterine Fibroids or Polyps

According to Dr Maya P. L. Gade, "Benign growths like fibroids or polyps in the uterus can lead to heavier menstrual flows, clotting, and irregular spotting after a missed cycle. If left unchecked, they may contribute to long-term menstrual irregularities."

3. Pregnancy Complications

"A missed period accompanied by dark blood clots can sometimes indicate pregnancy complications," warns Dr Dayal. "While implantation bleeding is common, brown or black clots could be a sign of an early miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, which requires immediate medical attention."

4. Endometrial Hyperplasia

"Thickening of the uterine lining, particularly in women over 35, can cause abnormal bleeding and clotting," says Dr Gade. "In some cases, this condition may also increase the risk of endometrial cancer, making early medical consultation essential."

Warning Signs That Call for Immediate Care

Dr Dayal and Dr Gade suggest seeking medical attention if you experience the following symptoms:
    Heavy Bleeding: "If you are changing more than one pad or tampon per hour or passing large clots, consult a doctor immediately," advises Dr Dayal.
  • Severe Abdominal Pain: "Pain accompanied by vomiting, fever, or dizziness could indicate an infection, miscarriage, or ectopic pregnancy," says Dr Gade.
  • Foul-Smelling Discharge: "A strong odour from vaginal discharge may signal an infection that requires urgent treatment," warns Dr Dayal.

    • Medical Diagnosis and Evaluation

    To determine the underlying cause, your doctor may recommend:
      Pelvic or Transvaginal Ultrasound: "This helps assess the ovaries and uterus, identify fibroids or polyps, and measure the thickness of the uterine lining," explains Dr. Gade.
  • Pregnancy Test (Beta hCG): "A urine or blood test can confirm or rule out pregnancy-related complications," says Dr Dayal.
  • Endometrial Biopsy: "In women over 45, a biopsy may be required to check for abnormal cell growth," Dr Gade shares.
  • Hormone Level Tests: "Measuring estrogen and progesterone levels can help diagnose PCOS or other hormonal disorders," adds Dr Dayal.

    • Maintaining Hormonal Balance and Reproductive Health

    Dr Dayal explains that in most cases, clotting after a missed period is due to temporary stress or hormonal fluctuations. However, she recommends lifestyle modifications to support menstrual health:
      Maintain a Healthy Weight: "Excess or insufficient body fat can disrupt hormones and menstrual cycles. A balanced diet and regular exercise can help regulate periods."
  • Consume Omega-3 Rich Foods: "Fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts help maintain estrogen and progesterone levels, reducing menstrual irregularities and inflammation."
  • Stay Hydrated: "Drinking enough water helps flush out toxins, improve circulation, and support a balanced menstrual cycle."
  • Manage Stress: "Regular mindfulness practices, meditation, and yoga can help reduce stress-induced hormonal imbalances, supporting overall menstrual health."

    • Can You Expect a Normal Period in the Next Cycle?

    "Yes, if the issue is solely due to hormonal fluctuations, you can expect a normal period in the next cycle," reassures Dr Gade. "However, if irregularities persist, further medical evaluation may be necessary."

    Diet and Exercise Recommendations for Regular Menstrual Cycles

      "A low-fat, balanced diet with lean proteins, whole grains, and fresh fruits and vegetables can support hormonal balance," suggests Dr Dayal.
  • "Cardio exercises and strength training can help maintain a healthy weight and prevent excessive hormonal fluctuations," adds Dr Gade.
  • "If bleeding is pregnancy-related, rest and avoiding strenuous activities are crucial," she explains.
    • Dark or brown clots after a missed period can arise from various causes, ranging from minor hormonal imbalances to serious health conditions.
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