Women’s bodies undergo many changes and phases of life over time. Various hormonal, emotional, mental, and physical changes drive them ahead in their journeys. Menstruation is one of these phases of life, which is very normal and varies in women.
Many women go through this phase every month. Earlier, it was considered taboo to talk about them. As orthodox thinking started to fade, people started to talk about the bodily changes that every woman goes through. There are many fascinating facts about menstruation and bleeding.
Moreover, many things are talked about the colors of menstrual blood. It indicates various things about your menstrual cycle and its health. So, let’s explore more about this biological phenomenon millions of women experience worldwide every month.
In this article, we will be delving into understanding what different colors of menstrual blood mean and also talk more about menstrual bleeding. We will also talk about how to identify when to be alert and seek medical attention.
What is the menstrual cycle and menstrual bleeding?
The menstrual cycle begins with menstrual bleeding, indicating the first day of the follicular phase. When the follicular phase starts, the level of estrogen and progesterone becomes low, resulting in making the top layer of the uterus thickened and the lining breakdown and start shedding.
This process is called menstrual bleeding. The menstrual blood is made of blood, uterine lining cells, cervical mucus, vaginal secretions, and other components. The purpose of menstrual bleeding is that every month, your body prepares itself for possible pregnancy. But, when the pregnancy does not occur, it could lead to shedding of its lining. And menstrual blood passes out of your body through the vagina.
The average menstrual cycle is 28 days, but it can vary from 21 to 35 days. Tracking your menstrual cycle can help you understand your body and identify any irregularities. You can track it by marking the first day of your period on a calendar and noting any symptoms you experience.
Colors of menstrual blood and their meaning:
The color of blood becomes darker if it stays longer inside your uterus and vagina. Because it can start to react along with oxygen. The reaction results in the color to get darker. The longer the blood stays inside your body, the darker the colors of menstrual blood get.
Here are some examples of different colors of period blood and what they mean.
1. Pink Blood:
Pink is seen at the beginning of your period. It occurs when the bright red blood may mix with vaginal discharge resulting in the color to lighten and look pink. The vaginal discharge is a mix of fluid and cells that are passed out of your vagina to ensure your vaginal tissues are healthy, moist, and infection free. So, the pink color indicates a light period.
2. Bright Red Blood:
Your uterus starts to shed blood actively during your period; if your blood color appears to be light red, it indicates that your blood is fresh and it has not stayed in the vagina for a long time.
3. Dark Red Blood:
If your period blood appears to be dark red, that simply indicates the blood has been in the vagina for a long time. You may also notice some blood clots at times. It is a completely normal part of the process unless the clots are larger than the size of quarters.
4. Brown or Black Blood:
These are some color variations that can be seen in the blood that has been in the vagina for a longer time. Black blood can be dark red or brown-colored blood that appears to be black. At times when your period comes to an end, the dark blood can get mixed with vaginal discharge and end up looking brown.
When to see a doctor:
The period can be a normal process that every woman goes through. However, at times, it can show some abnormal patterns and changes in the body that need to be addressed by medical professionals. Here are some signs to identify and seek timely medical attention.
- Heavy Bleeding
- Prolonged Bleeding
- Irregular Periods
- Severe Pain
- Bleeding Between Periods
- Changes in Menstrual Flow
Conclusion:
It is essential to be aware of your bodily changes, as there can be certain cautious signs to pick up on time. Menstrual times prepare your body for many changes. During your period, many hormonal changes occur inside your reproductive organs. Bleeding is very common during periods as it allows unnecessary things to exit from your body through your vagina. But colors of menstrual blood can help you stay alert in case of any abnormality inside your body to seek immediate medical attention.
FAQ:
What are unhealthy period blood colors?
However, orange, gray, or green tinges to your period blood or vaginal discharge are often a sign of infection, such as: Trichomoniasis. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) some sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
What color is endometrial bleeding?
Endometriosis can also cause a person to have spotting. Spotting is when a person bleeds in small amounts between periods. Blood that occurs due to spotting may be red, pink, or brown.
What color is your period when you have low estrogen?
Pink period blood can indicate low estrogen levels. This can occur due to a number of possible reasons, including hormonal birth control, perimenopause, or significant weight loss.
