Heavy Menstrual Clots and Abdominal Pain: Should You See a Doctor?

Heavy menstrual blood clots and sharp abdominal pain?

Hello Doctor,
I was late for my period by a month, so I went to the hospital for a check-up.
The doctor prescribed me medication to induce menstruation for three days.
After taking it for a few days, my period started, but there are a lot of blood clots (more than usual for my period), along with sharp abdominal pain.
Could this be related to my uterine fibroids (8 cm and 6 cm)? Should I wait until my period is over to go to the hospital for a check-up, or should I seek medical attention during my period? Thank you, Doctor.

Miss Chen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/27

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The response indicates that the heavy menstrual bleeding is primarily caused by irregular menstruation.
Uterine fibroids may also affect uterine contractions, leading to increased menstrual flow.
If you need to change your sanitary pad in less than three hours, you do not have to wait for your period to end; you can seek medical attention at any time to prevent excessive blood loss, which could lead to anemia or even shock.
Sincerely, Dr.
Lü Li-Cheng, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2016/06/27

More Info

When it comes to heavy menstrual clots and abdominal pain, especially in the context of existing uterine fibroids, it is crucial to seek medical attention. Your symptoms, including the presence of large blood clots and abdominal pain, could indeed be related to your uterine fibroids, which are non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can cause heavy menstrual bleeding and discomfort.

Uterine fibroids can vary in size and location, and larger fibroids, such as the ones you mentioned (8 cm and 6 cm), can significantly impact menstrual flow and cause pain. They can lead to increased menstrual bleeding, which may manifest as larger clots, and can also cause pressure symptoms, including abdominal pain. The pain you are experiencing could be due to the fibroids themselves or related to other factors such as hormonal changes or complications like degeneration of the fibroids.

Given that you have already experienced a delay in your menstrual cycle and are now facing heavier bleeding with clots, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. Here are some considerations regarding your situation:
1. Timing of the Visit: While it is essential to monitor your symptoms during your menstrual period, it may be more beneficial to schedule an appointment after your period ends. This allows your doctor to assess your condition without the interference of active bleeding, which can complicate examinations and imaging studies. However, if the pain becomes severe or if you experience any concerning symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, or significant changes in your bleeding pattern, you should seek medical attention immediately.

2. Diagnostic Evaluation: After your menstrual cycle, your doctor may recommend a pelvic ultrasound or other imaging studies to evaluate the size and number of fibroids and to assess their impact on your uterus and surrounding structures. This evaluation can help determine if the fibroids are the primary cause of your symptoms or if there are other underlying issues that need to be addressed.

3. Management Options: Depending on the findings, your healthcare provider may discuss various management options. If the fibroids are determined to be the cause of your symptoms, treatment options may include medication to help manage symptoms, hormonal therapies, or surgical options if the fibroids are significantly affecting your quality of life.

4. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your menstrual cycle, including the amount of bleeding, the size of clots, and any associated symptoms such as pain or discomfort. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in making a diagnosis and formulating a treatment plan.

5. Potential Complications: It is also important to be aware of potential complications associated with fibroids, such as anemia due to heavy bleeding or the risk of fibroid degeneration, which can cause acute pain. If you notice any new or worsening symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to your uterine fibroids, it is essential to have a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional. Scheduling an appointment after your menstrual period can provide a clearer picture of your condition and allow for appropriate management. If you experience severe symptoms or have any concerns, do not hesitate to seek medical attention sooner. Your health and well-being are paramount, and addressing these symptoms promptly can help prevent complications and improve your quality of life.

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