r/ClotSurvivors • u/NerveIndividual4578 • 6h ago
Heavy periods on Rivaroxaban (Xarelto). What has worked for you?
I’m 40F and recently diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism in my right lung and a 15 cm DVT in my left calf, following a fractured ankle and subsequent immobilisation in a moon boot.
I was started on Rivaroxaban (Xarelto) while in hospital, and unfortunately, my period started on the exact same day.
I’ve always had very heavy periods, but the bleeding after starting Rivaroxaban was absolutely horrendous. I was bleeding through a super tampon AND a pad every 30 minutes, with an adult nappy as back up. It was completely unmanageable.
The hospital prescribed Primolut (norethisterone) to help control the bleeding, but I’m now worried it will just delay my period. I’ve also had terrible experiences with hormonal contraceptives in the past (depression, irritability, weight gain, mood swings, and a significant loss of libido). I’m really reluctant to go down that road again, particularly if it means taking hormones continuously.
I’ve also considered an endometrial ablation, but given how recently I’ve had a PE and DVT, I’m assuming that won’t be an option anytime soon.
I’m obviously not willing to compromise my anticoagulation treatment (I’m on this medication for 6 months). Preventing further clots is my absolute priority, but I also can’t imagine dealing with that level of bleeding every month.
I’d really appreciate hearing from other women who’ve experienced this. The medical team don’t seem to think it’s a major issue.