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During menstruation, many women will find that their menstrual blood is mixed with some blood clots like "flesh", which makes many people confused and worried. So, what exactly are these blood clots? Why is it happening? Furthermore, what foods should be eaten during menstruation that are better for the body? This article will answer these questions in detail for you.
Causes of blood clots during menstruation
Blood clots during menstruation are not uncommon. These blood clots are mainly formed due to the shedding of the lining of the uterus that mixes with the blood. Every month, a woman's endometrium thickens in preparation for a possible conception.
If you don't conceive, the lining breaks off and is excreted through the vagina. These shedding linings sometimes clot together in the uterus and are then expelled with menstrual blood.
Severe or prolonged bleeding is often accompanied by the formation of blood clots. When menstrual bleeding is heavy, blood accumulates in the uterus for a longer period of time, and clotting factors have more time to form blood clots. If the lining of the uterus is too thick or the uterus does not contract strongly enough to pass menstrual blood in a timely manner, it can also lead to the formation of blood clots.
Details of menstrual blood clot formation
The formation mechanism of blood clots mainly includes the following aspects:
High menstrual blood flow: When menstrual flow is high, blood accumulates in the uterus for a longer period of time, and clotting factors have more time to form blood clots. Studies have shown that women who use copper IUDs are more likely to experience heavy bleeding and blood clots during menstruation.
Endometrial thickness: Excessively thick endometrium can also cause more blood clots to appear during menstruation. This is because when the thicker intima falls off, it forms larger clumps of tissue.
Insufficient uterine contractions: Uterine contractions are not strong enough to drain menstrual blood in a timely manner, which can also lead to the formation of blood clots. The contraction of the uterus is an important process that helps to expel menstrual blood, and if the contraction is not sufficient, the blood stays in the uterus for a longer period of time, resulting in the formation of blood clots.
Other factors such as unstable hormone levels, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, etc., can all contribute to the appearance of blood clots during menstruation.
Dietary recommendations during menstruation
To better manage the discomfort during menstruation, doctors recommend the following five foods that should be eaten during menstruation:
Iron-rich foods: such as red meat, spinach, legumes. Because menstrual blood loss can lead to a decrease in iron in the body, iron supplementation is essential to prevent anemia. Women who use copper IUDs are more likely to develop anemia during menstruation and need more iron supplementation.
Foods rich in vitamin C: such as citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers. Vitamin C helps in the absorption of iron and strengthens immunity. Vitamin C intake significantly improves the absorption rate of iron, which is of great significance for the prevention and treatment of menstrual anemia.
High-fiber foods: include whole grains, vegetables, fruits. High fiber helps maintain gut health and relieves constipation and bloating. A high-fiber diet can help alleviate indigestion and bloating issues in menstrual syndrome and improve overall comfort.
Magnesium-rich foods: such as nuts, seeds, bananas. Magnesium relieves muscle cramps and menstrual cramps. Indian women experienced significant relief in menstrual cramps after magnesium supplementation.
Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids: such as fish (salmon), flaxseeds, walnuts. Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory effects and can relieve inflammation and pain during menstruation. Consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids can significantly reduce pain and discomfort during menstruation.
We can see that a reasonable diet has a significant impact on the health management during menstruation. For example, iron-rich foods can replace iron deficiency due to menstrual blood loss and prevent anemia. The intake of vitamin C can improve the absorption rate of iron and enhance immunity.
A high-fiber diet helps maintain gut health and relieves indigestion and bloating. Magnesium supplementation is effective in relieving menstrual cramps, while omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory effects that can relieve pain and discomfort during menstruation.
Blood clots during menstruation are a normal physiological phenomenon, but if accompanied by severe pain or abnormally heavy bleeding, prompt medical attention should be sought promptly. In terms of diet, foods rich in iron, vitamin C, high in fiber, magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in relieving menstrual discomfort and maintaining good health.
Finally, what experiences and insights would you like to share? Feel free to leave a message in the comment area!
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