What does it mean if menstrual blood is dark red and contains blood clots?

Nov 08, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

In general, dark red menstrual blood with clots may be caused by prolonged sitting, excessive fatigue, Qi stagnation and blood stasis, endometritis, uterine fibroids, and other factors. Patients should engage in appropriate exercise, adjust their lifestyle habits, and follow medical advice regarding medication. During menstruation, it is important to keep the body warm and avoid consuming spicy or irritating foods, such as hot pot, barbecue, and spicy hot pot.

Generally, dark red menstrual blood with clots may be caused by prolonged sitting, excessive fatigue, Qi stagnation and blood stasis, endometritis, uterine fibroids, and other related factors. Patients should engage in appropriate physical activity, adjust their lifestyle habits, and follow medical advice regarding medication. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Prolonged Sitting: Sitting for long periods during menstruation may hinder the smooth discharge of menstrual blood, causing blood to remain in the uterine cavity for a longer time. This blood becomes oxidized, turning dark red and possibly forming clots. It is recommended not to maintain the same posture for extended periods; instead, engage in appropriate physical activities such as walking, stretching, or practicing Tai Chi, which can help alleviate symptoms.

2. Excessive Fatigue: Engaging in strenuous exercise or heavy physical labor during menstruation can lead to excessive fatigue, increasing menstrual flow but impairing its smooth discharge. As a result, blood may coagulate in the uterine cavity, forming clots, and the menstrual blood may appear dark red. It is recommended to adjust lifestyle habits, avoid excessive fatigue and strenuous exercise, and ensure adequate rest and sleep.

3. Qi Stagnation and Blood Stasis: Poor emotional well-being, frequent irritability, or anger during menstruation may lead to liver Qi stagnation, Qi blockage, and blood stasis, which can hinder the normal discharge of menstrual blood, often resulting in clots and dark red blood. It is recommended to stay relaxed, maintain a positive mood, and avoid anger or emotional distress to help reduce the occurrence of Qi stagnation and blood stasis.

4. Endometritis: Endometritis refers to inflammation of the endometrium caused by bacterial invasion past the cervical defenses. The bacteria damage the endometrium, causing local congestion and edema. During menstruation, the affected endometrial tissue sheds and is expelled together with menstrual blood, potentially causing symptoms such as dark red blood with clots. Patients may follow medical guidance to use antibiotics such as metronidazole tablets, clindamycin hydrochloride capsules, or moxifloxacin hydrochloride tablets for anti-infective treatment.

5. Uterine Fibroids: Uterine fibroids are benign proliferations of uterine smooth muscle tissue. When fibroids are large or located within the uterine cavity or myometrium, they may interfere with endometrial shedding, leading to increased menstrual bleeding and prolonged menstrual periods. When excessive bleeding combines with poor discharge, clots may form, and the menstrual blood may appear dark red. Patients may follow medical advice to choose surgical treatments such as myomectomy, vaginal fibroid removal, or uterine artery embolization.

During menstruation, it is important to keep the body warm and avoid consuming spicy or irritating foods such as hot pot, barbecue, or spicy hot dishes.

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