When an individual is sexually active, one of the primary reasons for a missed period may be pregnancy. It is crucial to consider this possibility; however, the presence of blood clots during menstruation or the absence of a period can also indicate underlying health issues.

In a discussion with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Astha Dayal, the director of obstetrics and gynecology at CK Birla Hospital Gurgaon, stated, “A missed period accompanied by dark blood clots may suggest early pregnancy, including implantation bleeding, or complications such as ectopic pregnancy or threatened miscarriage. It is important to conduct a urine pregnancy test or a beta hCG blood test, along with a transvaginal ultrasound, to confirm the situation.”

Common reasons missed periods, dark blood clots

• Hormonal imbalance, conditions like Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or hormonal contraceptives can disturb the cycle of ovulation and menstruation.
• Stress and anxiety are common reasons for hormonal imbalances and missed periods.
• Weight changes: Significant weight gain or loss can also disturb periods
• Sometimes uterine fibroids, polyps, or adenomyosis (where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows into the uterine wall) can cause dark blood clots, and missed periods. 
• Perimenopause and menopause: As women approach perimenopause (the years leading up to menopause), hormonal fluctuations can cause irregular periods, missed cycles, and sometimes heavier bleeding, which can include dark blood clots.

What preventive tips can you follow?

The gynecologist added that if missed periods and dark blood clots are also accompanied by severe pain, cramping, fever, chills, or foul-smelling discharge, it is essential to seek medical intervention without delay.

“In most cases, lifestyle changes, stress management, improved diet, and regular exercise can help regulate the menstrual cycle, particularly in PCOD, or hormonal imbalance. Sometimes, hormonal treatments like birth control pills or thyroid medication depending on the cause. For pregnancy complications, fibroids or endometriosis, we may also need surgical interventions,” Dr Astha Dayal said. 

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