Golf Ball-Sized Blood Clots During Period: 12 Possible Causes

Blood clots, especially large blood clots during periods, especially with bright red period blood, can naturally make you feel a bit uneasy or curious about what’s going on. It’s important to know that many people experience clots during menstruation, and often, these are completely normal. What really matters is paying attention to the size and frequency of the clots to help you decide whether it’s time to check in with your healthcare provider.

Jelly-Like Blood Clots During Period: Is It Normal?

Finding jelly-like blood clots during your period can feel surprising, but it’s often perfectly normal. There are various reasons this can happen, including common conditions like fibroids. Understanding what’s typical and when to seek guidance can help you feel more confident about your body.

Why Do I Have Blood Clots During My Period?

Menstrual clots are made up of blood and uterine lining tissue being naturally expelled from your body. Small clots are a regular part of the menstrual cycle, as your body sheds this lining each month.

Are Blood Clots Normal During Your Period?

Generally, clots that are the size of a quarter or smaller are considered normal. Clots might warrant a closer look if they come with a very heavy flow — such as needing to change your menstrual products in under an hour — prolonged bleeding, or significant discomfort. If any of these apply or you simply feel unsure, consulting a gynecologist can provide reassurance and personalized care.

How Big Is Too Big?

Ideally, the biggest period blood clot you should pass should be about the size of a coin. Clots of this size can be part of a normal menstrual flow and aren’t usually a cause for concern. However, when clots become significantly larger — such as those resembling the size of a golf ball or even your palm — it’s worth taking a closer look. Larger clots can sometimes be linked to underlying conditions like uterine fibroids, uterine polyps, adenomyosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or hormonal imbalances. In other situations, they may be related to events that require immediate medical attention, such as a miscarriage.

Golf ball-sized blood clots

These are generally considered to be too big to be normal. If you are suddenly passing a large blood clot size of golf balls, get severe cramping, pelvic pain, unusual discharge, or bleeding through period products frequently, these can all be signs that you need to see a doctor.

Palm-sized blood clots during period

Clots approaching the size of your palm are rare and should be evaluated promptly by a healthcare professional. While this doesn’t always indicate an emergency, it is a strong sign that something is disrupting your normal menstrual flow. Even if the cause turns out to be benign, addressing it quickly ensures you get the right support and treatment, helping you feel more comfortable and confident about your health.

What Causes Abnormal Clots During Your Period?

Abnormal clots during periods can happen for a variety of reasons. Some causes may require prompt medical attention, while others are less urgent. Understanding the possible reasons can help you feel informed and empowered to take the right next steps.

1. Miscarriage

A miscarriage can occur for many reasons that are often outside of your control. These may include chromosomal differences in the fetus, hormonal imbalances, or other medical factors. When a miscarriage happens, the body passes tissue from the pregnancy, which can sometimes appear as larger clots.

Miscarriage and golf ball-sized blood clots during period

Early miscarriages can mimic the sensations and symptoms of having a heavy period with clots. It’s possible to have symptoms like pain and tissue clots. If you suspect this is what you experienced, or you have miscarriage golf ball-sized blood clots during periods, then you should follow up with your OB-GYN or another healthcare provider for evaluation and support. Remember, experiencing a miscarriage is never your fault, and compassionate care is available to guide you through both the physical and emotional aspects.

2. Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in or on the uterus. They’re quite common and can vary in size, from very small to larger masses. Fibroids can cause changes in menstrual flow by disrupting the normal shedding of the uterine lining. This may lead to heavier bleeding, slower blood flow, and more time for clots to form.

What do fibroid blood clots look like?

Clots associated with fibroids are often dark, thick, and jelly-like in texture. Sometimes, they may also contain thin strands of tissue from the fibroid itself. While passing clots like this can be a normal part of having fibroids, consistently noticing large or frequent clots is a good reason to check in with a doctor or gynecologist. They can help confirm the cause, discuss whether any treatment is needed, and offer options to help manage symptoms so you feel more comfortable and in control.

3. Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or inside the ovaries. They’re quite common, often harmless, and in many cases cause no symptoms at all. Many cysts resolve naturally without treatment, although some may require monitoring or medical care.

Ovarian cyst and blood clots during period

While ovarian cysts don’t directly create menstrual blood clots, they can sometimes contribute to heavier periods through hormonal imbalances. A heavier flow can, in turn, make clots more likely to form.

Occasionally, a cyst may rupture or leak, which can cause sudden, sharp pelvic pain. In many cases, this discomfort improves with rest, but sometimes it requires medical attention. If you experience intense pain, fainting, heavy bleeding, shortness of breath, or tachycardia (fast heartbeat), it’s important to seek medical care promptly. Getting checked early can help you recover more comfortably and ensure nothing more serious is happening.

4. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is a hormonal condition that can affect your hormones and consequently, how your body regulates the thickness of the uterine lining. The thicker the lining, the heavier your flow may be — and this can lead to passing larger blood clots during your period. PCOS can also cause skipped or irregular cycles, which may make bleeding heavier when menstruation does occur.

Supporting more regular cycles can help reduce inflammation and balance hormone levels, which in turn may ease heavy bleeding over time. At home, this might include following an anti-inflammatory diet, managing stress, and considering targeted supplements, such as the Mira PCOS Supplements, for gentle cycle support. For a more personalized approach, the fertility experts at the Hormone Health Clinic for Fertility can guide you in tracking, interpreting, and managing irregular cycles with your unique hormonal patterns in mind.

5. Hormonal Imbalances

Conditions such as perimenopause and thyroid disorders can affect the size of the blood clots you experience. Some forms of hormonal birth control can also cause this. This is because hormonal fluctuations impact endometrial stability — the less stable, the more likely you are to experience larger blood clots and other symptoms. Tracking your hormones with devices like the Mira Hormone Monitor and Wands can help you track your E3G, LH, PdG, and FSH, and using the Mira App can help you identify the imbalances that might be causing abnormal bleeding. Once you’ve identified an imbalance, looking into over-the-counter changes or dietary changes can help you to rebalance your system. Supplements and teas like the Mira Fertility Tea can help to naturally balance hormones, which can positively affect fertility if you have a hormonal imbalance.

6. Adenomyosis

Adenomyosis occurs when endometrial-like tissue grows into the uterine muscle wall. It’s relatively common — especially in women aged 35–50, those who have had multiple pregnancies, uterine surgery, or conditions like endometriosis and fibroids. This tissue growth thickens the uterine lining, which can lead to painful, heavy periods and larger clots. Other symptoms may include cramping, back pain, and clotting in midlife. Because the symptoms overlap with fibroids, adenomyosis can sometimes be misdiagnosed. If you experience these symptoms, tracking your cycle and noting changes in bleeding patterns can be a helpful first step before discussing treatment options with your healthcare provider.

7. Bleeding Disorders

In some cases, heavy periods with large clots may be linked to undiagnosed clotting or platelet disorders, such as von Willebrand disease. These conditions can cause prolonged periods and excessive clotting, sometimes beginning at a young age. If you notice unexplained clotting — especially if it’s been present since your first periods — it’s worth discussing with a healthcare professional, as a hematologic evaluation may be recommended. While these conditions might sound rare or concerning, many are manageable with the right care plan. Using tools like the Mira Analyzer can help you monitor your cycle trends, making it easier for your healthcare provider to identify patterns and guide treatment.

8. Endometrial Hyperplasia

This is an overgrowth of the uterine lining due to excess estrogen. It can cause thick and unstable tissue that sheds irregularly, often with clots. This can cause longer or heavier periods and is more common for people experiencing perimenopause, obesity, or other hormone-related conditions. Doing an at-home finger-prick test like the Panorama Lab Test can offer you personalized and in-depth hormonal panel insights. This can be especially helpful if over-the-counter tools show irregularities but your clinical picture is still unclear.

9. Perimenopause-Related Changes

Perimenopause can cause hormonal instability when a person reaches their 40s, leading to irregular ovulation, skipped periods, or heavier periods. Someone who has estrogen dominance (when there is a higher ratio of estrogen to progesterone in the body) can have skipped periods that form a thick lining. When this lining finally sheds, it can appear as large clots. This is a common symptom, but one that is worth tracking and discussing with a healthcare provider. Keeping symptom diaries and tracking your hormones with a device like the Mira Menopause Transitions kit can help you track the hormonal fluctuations in your 40s, causing your symptoms. Combining it with the Menopause Transitions mode in the Mira App can help you see the big picture of your hormones and transition into the menopause.

10. Intrauterine Device (IUD) Complications

Both copper and hormonal IUDs can sometimes cause heavier bleeding or blood clots, especially during the first few months after insertion. This is a common and generally normal adjustment period as your body adapts.

That said, it’s important to be aware of signs that warrant medical attention. You should contact your healthcare provider if you experience:

• Sharp or severe pain

• Very large blood clots

• If the IUD feels like it has moved or been expelled

This isn’t to discourage the use of IUDs — they are a preferred and effective form of contraception for many people. Knowing when to seek help can make your experience safer and more comfortable.

11. Postpartum Shedding 

The weeks following childbirth are a special but often tiring time. During this period, your uterus sheds lochia — a mix of blood, tissue, and mucus — which can include passing blood clots. This is a natural part of postpartum recovery.

However, if you notice clots larger than a golf ball after the first few days postpartum, or if your bleeding suddenly worsens, especially alongside symptoms like fever or pelvic pain, it’s important to reach out to a healthcare professional promptly. These signs can indicate an infection or other concerns that need medical attention.

12. Pelvic Infections

Infections like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can be associated with inflammation of the uterine lining, which may lead to irregular bleeding and clotting. This happens because the infection can affect the delicate tissues inside your uterus.

If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s important to reach out to your healthcare provider:

• Unusual vaginal odor

• Fever

• Abdominal tenderness or pain

• Sudden changes in your menstrual cycle

Early diagnosis and treatment of pelvic infections can prevent complications and support your overall reproductive health. Listening to your body and seeking care when something feels off is a powerful way to take charge of your well-being.

When to Be Concerned About Heavy Periods With Clots

While blood clots during your period are often a normal part of your cycle, there are times when it’s important to pay closer attention to what your body is telling you.

Are Golf Ball-Sized Blood Clots on Periods a Reason for Concern?

Passing clots the size of a golf ball isn’t typical and can sometimes signal that your body needs extra care. If you notice these clots appearing suddenly, happening frequently, or accompanied by other symptoms like heavy bleeding or intense pain, it’s a good idea to connect with your healthcare provider. They can help identify any underlying causes and support you in finding the best path forward.

Are Palm-Sized Blood Clots During Period a Reason for Concern?

Passing large, palm-sized clots — especially if they happen frequently or cause pain — is a signal that it’s time to check in with a medical professional. This is particularly important if you’re also experiencing symptoms like anemia, dizziness, or fatigue.

If you’re ever unsure about what you’re experiencing, there’s no harm in asking questions or booking a healthcare appointment. Trusting your instincts and seeking support is a strong and proactive step toward understanding and managing your health.

Signs You Should Call Your Doctor

While many changes during your period are normal, certain symptoms mean it’s time to connect with a healthcare professional promptly. If you experience any of the following, please seek medical advice as soon as possible:

• Severe pain

• Heavy bleeding lasting more than 7 days

• Soaking through pads or tampons every hour or less

Here’s a quick guide to symptoms, possible causes, and recommended actions:

Keeping a record of your symptoms — including timing and severity — can be incredibly helpful when you visit your healthcare provider. This information supports a more precise diagnosis and more personalized care.

Bottom Line

While passing blood clots can be a completely normal part of menstruation, paying attention to their size, frequency, and any accompanying symptoms is important. It’s natural to feel worried sometimes, but remember that what can feel like a huge blood clot during periods can have a standard explanation. If you ever feel unsure or concerned, reaching out to a healthcare professional can provide reassurance and guidance — there’s absolutely no shame in asking for support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it normal to have big blood clots after an abortion?

It’s common to pass some clots during the initial bleeding after an abortion, usually no larger than a coin. However, if you start passing clots larger than a coin, experience heavy bleeding, or notice signs of infection afterward, it’s important to speak with a medical professional.

Is it normal to have excessive bleeding and blood clots after an IUD expulsion?

No, excessive bleeding and clotting after an IUD expulsion is not typical and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to ensure your safety and health.