How to stop heavy menstrual bleeding with clots at home

Clots form when blood leaves the uterus quickly and has less time to remain fluid. Heavy or repeated bleeding can occur with uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, endometrial polyps, hormonal changes around perimenopause, or conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome. Ongoing blood loss can lead to iron deficiency anaemia, which may cause tiredness, breathlessness, headaches, or a racing heartbeat.

Rest when you need to, drink fluids, and keep a record of when bleeding starts, how often you change period products, and whether clots are appearing. Eat iron-containing foods such as beans, lentils, leafy greens, eggs, or meat alongside vitamin-C-rich foods. Do not start iron tablets or medicines intended to reduce bleeding without checking that they are suitable for you, especially if you take blood thinners, have a bleeding disorder, could be pregnant, or have stomach, kidney, or liver problems.

Seek urgent medical help if bleeding is soaking through products repeatedly, you feel faint or unusually weak, you have shortness of breath or chest pain, severe pelvic pain, or you may be pregnant. Arrange a clinical review for bleeding that keeps returning, lasts longer than expected for you, interrupts daily activities, or comes with symptoms of anaemia.

Ask what might be causing the clots, whether you need a pregnancy test, blood count or iron assessment, and which treatments fit your health history and pregnancy plans. Bring your bleeding record and a list of medicines and supplements.