Is it a bit of a shock if you see almost dark brown blood when you are menstruating? But don't worry, menstrual blood can take on different colors, smells and thicknesses.
But what does the color of your menstrual blood actually say?
You can deduce a lot from the different colors and thicknesses of menstrual blood. The color has to do with, among other things, how old the blood is or how far along you are in your period. Menstruation is therefore a very good way to see how your body is doing.
Menstrual blood can therefore have different colors, not just red. During menstruation the color of the blood changes. From pink to dark brown. But what do the color and thickness of your menstrual blood say about your health?
What does a bright red color of menstrual blood mean?
Bright red blood is the new blood. This blood has not had time to darken before leaving your body. In general, a bright red color of menstrual blood means that everything in your body is working as it should. This is usually on the days when you flow the most (day two or three).
What does a pink color of menstrual blood mean?
Some women experience 'spotting', also known as ovulation bleeding, outside of their menstrual period - in the middle of their cycle. This blood may have a slightly pinkish tint because it mixes with fertile cervical mucus and vaginal discharge. This makes it pink or light red in color.
It also occurs during menstruation, which can be due to low estrogen levels. Estrogen is a female hormone that, among other things, regulates the menstrual cycle. This low estrogen level can be caused by, among other things, the use of the contraceptive pill or if you exercise excessively, which can cause your menstruation to become somewhat out of balance or disappear. Other signs of low estrogen levels can be the onset of menopause or PCOS.
What does dark red, brown and black menstrual blood mean?
At the beginning or end of your period, the color of the blood may have a dark brown or dark red tint. This is often also a bit thicker. Dark brown blood around the end of your period is often residual, because it has taken longer to leave the uterus. Usually some remnants of the uterine lining remain in your body. This will then work itself out. On the heaviest days of menstruation, the blood may be dark red or almost black due to blood clots. This is also very common.
What does orange colored menstrual blood mean?
If blood mixes with cervical mucous membrane - which is on the inside and outside of the cervix - it may appear orange. Orange-colored bleeding or vaginal discharge can also indicate bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted disease. This is often accompanied by vaginal pain, itching and smelly vaginal discharge. Then go to the doctor and don't keep worrying about this.
What does jam-colored menstrual blood with clots mean?
If you have jam-colored blood, you may have too much estrogen and too little progesterone in your body. Your body produces these two different hormones when you have your period. Estrogen is mainly produced during the second phase of your menstrual cycle, also known as the follicular phase or spring (just after your period).
After ovulation, the progesterone level usually starts to rise immediately (would you like to read more about this? Be sure to check out our blog about the menstrual cycle .) Some clots or clumps are normal (also read our blog about the thickness of your menstrual blood ), but if these larger than a 50 cent coin, your hormones may be out of balance. You can first try to reduce your sugar, dairy and soy intake. If that doesn't work, check with your doctor.
What does a gray-red menstrual blood color mean?
If your menstrual blood is a combination of gray and red, there is a risk of an infection or an STD. It will not only look a bit strange, but will also have an unpleasant odor. It is best to have yourself tested by your doctor. Women who have a miscarriage often also have some grayish lumps of tissue during their 'period.'
So..
When you have your period, the color of the blood can change continuously. This is all part of it. It is important to pay close attention and listen to your body. And also to pay attention to the patterns and changes in your body. Only you know what is normal for your body.
If you are in doubt, we advise you to keep a menstrual diary for one or two months in which you keep track of when you have your period, the amount of blood (approximately) and the color and substance of the blood. Take this with you when you go to the doctor. In that case, do not wear menstrual pants once, but wear white sanitary towels to keep track of the color and texture of your blood.
