Managing menstruation can be challenging, especially when dealing with blood clots and the heavy flow that often accompanies them. While it’s always a good idea to check in with your medical provider if you notice a period that is unusually heavy or has any new symptoms along with it - like increased pain, cramping, or bloating - passing clots with your menstrual flow is usually just a normal part of your cycle. Things like hormonal fluctuations are often the cause of a heavier flow and a more clot-y consistency.
But if you are dealing with lots of clots in your flow, it can feel like your normal period care just isn’t cutting it anymore. No one wants to be changing their pad every couple hours, feeling nervous about leaks, or packing a whole box of tampons in their bag as they head out for the day. Sound like you? Well worry no more, there are better options out there, and they come with loads of other benefits too.
Menstrual Disc
Resuable menstrual discs are a great option for those experiencing blood clots. Menstrual discs are domed, flexible discs that fit snugly at the base of the cervix in your vaginal fornix (right above your vaginal canal). They stay in place by being tucked under the pubic bone. These products offer a really high capacity - more than any other period product on the market. Our Regular Saalt Disc, for example, holds up to 50 mL of flow (up to 6 tampons worth) and can be worn for up to 12 hours. That's almost a whole day of leak-proof peace of mind. No running to the bathroom every few hours to change an uncomfortable, leaky pad or tampon.
One of the other key advantages of period discs is that they can be worn during activities like swimming, exercise, or even penetrative period sex, as they sit securely in place right under your cervix. They also tend to be super comfortable and many believe that they can also help reduce their cramps. Since they hold your flow, rather than absorbing it like a tampon, you may find it to be less irritating. No more dry cotton tampons resting right on your sensitive cervix. Plus, when inserted correctly, you shouldn’t even feel that it’s there.
Menstrual discs, like the Saalt Disc, are also reusable, made from vagina-safe medical-grade silicone, and last up to 10 years with proper care. That’s a win for you, our planet, and your wallet.
Menstrual Cup
Menstrual cups are also a highly effective and sustainable option for managing heavy periods and clots. Similar to a menstrual disc, period cups are flexible, bell-shaped cups worn inside the vaginal canal to collect menstrual blood. They are held in place with gentle suction, giving them a secure, leak-proof fit. Because they also collect flow rather than absorb it, they tend to be a very comfortable option for those with a heavy flow. Plus, our Soft Cup is a great option for those who are more sensitive to pressure or cramping with other, firmer cups, giving an ultra comfy, unnoticeable feel.
Period cups, like our Regular Saalt Cup, also provide more coverage and longevity with wear than pads and tampons. They hold up to 30 mL of flow and give up to 12-hours of protection without needing to change your cup. Additionally, menstrual cups provide a mess-free removal when you do need to change your cup. Because the contents stay in the cup while you take it out, there’s no need to worry about a messy clean up. A great option for managing your heavy period on the go! (Speaking of on the go… check out our Saalt Travel Kit for cleaning your cup or disc on the go!)
Learn: How to insert a menstrual cup?
Period Underwear
Period underwear is a growing trend in reusable menstrual products, and it’s an excellent option for those with blood clots or a heavy menstrual flow. Our specially designed Saalt Wear period panties have absorbent layers built right into the fabric of the gusset, providing an amazingly comfortable, soft fit and dry feel that fit just like your everyday undies. Say good-bye to bunched up, crinkled, wet pads for good!
For individuals with heavy periods or clotting, period underwear can provide backup protection to your cup, disc, or tampon during particularly heavy days, ensuring you stay covered even if your flow is heavier than expected. Plus, our Super Absorbency styles are perfect for overnight or free-bleeding coverage, even on your heaviest days.
Learn: How do period panties work?
Shop: Best period underwear
Make the Switch
When managing blood clots, choosing the right reusable period product is essential for comfort and peace of mind. For those with a heavier flow or larger clots, menstrual cups, discs, and super absorbency period pants tend to offer the best protection while being the most comfortable products too. These little modern-miracles can hold more blood and provide a secure fit for up to 12 hours so you can live life without stressing about leaks.
Leakproof underwear can also provide extra backup protection when used in combination with a disc or cup. The best part? Wave buh-bye to that dingy pair in the back of your drawer that you save for your heaviest days. Our Saalt Wear leakproof panties are designed so you’ll feel comfortable and confident, because you deserve to feel your best even when your flow is at its worst.
By selecting the right mix of reusable period products, you can ensure a comfortable, leak-free experience while reducing your environmental impact and saving money by staying away from the tampon aisle. No matter what your needs are, there’s a reusable product out there that will help you manage your period with ease and confidence.
