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Why Is My Period Blood Not Coming Out Properly?

Published in Menstrual Irregularities 3 mins read

Experiencing issues with your period flow can be concerning, but several factors can contribute to this. It's crucial to understand the potential causes and seek medical attention if necessary.

Potential Reasons for Irregular Period Flow

Several reasons can explain why your period blood isn't flowing as expected. These include:

  • Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormones can significantly impact menstrual flow. As noted by Cleveland Clinic, “If your period feels stuck or doesn't seem to be coming out, it could be due to hormonal changes or from some type of obstruction.” This can lead to lighter flows or periods that seem to be "stuck."

  • Obstructions: Physical obstructions within the reproductive tract can hinder the normal flow of menstrual blood. This is another factor mentioned by Cleveland Clinic. 1 A medical professional can determine if an obstruction is present.

  • Retrograde Menstruation: In some cases, menstrual blood flows backward into the fallopian tubes instead of exiting the body. This is known as retrograde menstruation, as described by multiple sources including Cleveland Clinic 1 and Dr. Daniel Kushner's blog 8. While often harmless, significant retrograde menstruation might require medical evaluation.

  • Light Periods (Hypomenorrhea): A lighter-than-usual period, or hypomenorrhea, can result from various factors, including pregnancy, significant weight loss or gain, and underlying medical conditions. As noted by Prevention, several reasons can cause lighter periods. 4 Even a seemingly minimal flow can be observed mostly upon wiping, as mentioned by Medical News Today. 5

  • Bleeding Disorders: Problems with blood clotting can affect menstrual blood flow and lead to unusually light periods or periods that don't appear on your pad until wiping, as noted in several resources. 10

  • Uterine Issues: Structural issues or abnormalities in the uterus can potentially disrupt the flow of menstrual blood. This is a broad category and requires consultation with a gynecologist for diagnosis and proper management. 7

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience unusual menstrual bleeding or a period that consistently seems "stuck" or doesn't flow properly, consult a gynecologist for an evaluation. They can perform a thorough examination, identify the underlying cause, and recommend appropriate treatment. The Yoppie blog 2 notes that while a delayed period is sometimes possible, unusual patterns warrant professional attention.