Prolonged Bleeding and Clotting Concerns
I am a 33-year-old woman facing a troubling situation. Here's some background: My heavy bleeding issues began following childbirth, and I was later diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). An endometrial biopsy conducted in January returned normal results. Although a contraceptive coil was initially placed, it became dislocated and subsequently had to be removed. Currently, I have been experiencing an intense menstrual period that has persisted for 9 days—far worse than anything I've dealt with before. I've passed several clots the size of golf balls, and each time I use the restroom, I release multiple clots about the size of a 10-pence coin. This has been occurring repeatedly during the entire duration of my bleeding. I underwent emergency blood tests yesterday, and thankfully, the results appeared normal. Could this really just be a symptom of PCOS? The situation feels utterly overwhelming, leaving me uncertain about what steps to take next. I am waiting to get another coil fitted, but that appointment might be several months away.
Answers (1)
9/4/2025, 6:30:54 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing very distressing symptoms due to prolonged and heavy menstrual bleeding, which is understandably overwhelming. While PCOS can contribute to irregular menstrual cycles and heavy bleeding, your current symptoms—passing large clots and bleeding for an extended period—require careful attention.
Explanation
Heavy menstrual bleeding, particularly with the expulsion of significant clots, can sometimes be related to hormonal imbalances like those seen in PCOS or other conditions such as uterine fibroids, polyps, or even more serious issues. The fact that your endometrial biopsy was normal is reassuring, but your current bleeding is concerning, especially since it has lasted for 9 days and includes large clots.
Next Steps
Here are some prioritized steps you can take:
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Track Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your bleeding, including the amount, the size of clots, and any associated symptoms like pain, fatigue, or changes in your general health. This information can help healthcare providers assess your situation more accurately.
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Hydration and Nutrition: Maintain adequate hydration to help manage bleeding and consider increasing iron-rich foods to combat potential anemia from blood loss (e.g., lean meats, beans, leafy greens). A multivitamin may also be beneficial.
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Pain Management: If you're experiencing discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help reduce pain and potentially decrease bleeding, but be sure to follow the dosage instructions.
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Monitor for Red Flags: Watch for any signs that indicate you should seek immediate help, such as:
- Dizziness or fainting.
- Severe abdominal pain.
- Heart rate changes or persistent fatigue.
- Soaking through one or more pads every hour for several hours.
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Discuss Follow-up Options: If your appointment for the new contraceptive coil could take several months, you may want to reach out to your healthcare provider to see if they can expedite it or offer alternative treatments in the meantime, such as hormonal therapy or other medications to manage bleeding.
While PCOS can certainly influence your symptoms, your current level of bleeding warrants ongoing attention and action. It’s important to communicate these concerns clearly with your healthcare provider as you move forward. Please take care, and don't hesitate to reach out for support when needed.
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