As people in their late 30s and 40s hit perimenopause-the time immediately before actual menopause-hormone changes can cause their periods to become shorter or longer.įor example, if there are high estrogen levels in the body, more bleeding could occur. Age is another thing that comes into play.

'Medications that disrupt hormones, like thyroid drugs, steroids, and antipsychotics are also often responsible.'Īccording to MedlinePlus, uterine fibroids and polyps are two types of benign growths also to blame for abnormal vaginal bleeding. 'An overactive or underactive thyroid and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) are common hormone-driven problems that can cause irregular and longer periods,' Dr. But menorrhagia that extends past one week could be alarming. Some people have periods that only last three days others bleed for six or seven. If you have large clots for at least a few cycles in a row, let your healthcare provider know as soon as possible so they can take a closer look at what's happening.Ġ2 of 06 If Your Period Suddenly Gets Super Heavy or Lasts Forever A hormone imbalance resulting in a very heavy flow could be the cause, and large clots can also signify an infection or even a miscarriage. The larger clots are a sign of menorrhagia (long-term or very heavy menstrual bleeding), according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 'Small clots the size of raisins are usually nothing to worry about.' Larger, thicker clots that are greater than the size of a quarter may be cause for concern, however. 'They tend to be dark or bright red in color and come in irregular shapes and sizes,' Dr. They show up when your flow is very heavy, and the natural anticoagulants that normally break down clots before they leave your body can't keep up with how fast you're shedding your uterine lining. 01 of 06 If You're Seeing Big, Jelly-Like Blood Clotsīlood clots on your tampon or in the toilet are normal when you have your period.

Period blot clots