Color of Menstrual Blood: How It Changes and What It Means?

Hello! Today we will talk about an important topic that concerns many women—the color of menstrual blood. Why does it change, and what might this mean? In this article, we will discuss which changes in menstrual color are normal and when you should see a doctor.

Why Does the Color of Menstrual Blood Change?

Menstrual blood can change its color throughout the period. This is related to the intensity of the bleeding and the interaction of blood with oxygen. Let's explore the main shades of menstrual blood:

• Dark brown — at the beginning of the period, when the bleeding is less intense, the blood oxidizes and turns dark.
• Bright red — during the middle of the cycle, when the bleeding is more intense, the blood flows out faster and doesn't have time to oxidize, remaining bright.
• Dark or black — towards the end of the period, when the bleeding intensity decreases, the blood oxidizes again.

When Are Color Changes in Blood Not a Pathology?

In some cases, changes in blood color may be perfectly normal:

• Dark discharge during pregnancy — this can occur when the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine wall. Such discharge is called implantation bleeding and usually lasts for a short time.
• Discharge during ovulation — a small amount of blood may appear in the discharge during ovulation, which is typically light and lasts for 1-2 days.

When Should You See a Doctor?

There are a few situations where changes in menstrual blood may be a cause for concern:

• Your period lasts longer than 8 days.
• There is bleeding after sexual intercourse.
• The discharge turns orange or grayish.
• The discharge has an unpleasant odor and is accompanied by itching or discomfort.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to see a doctor to rule out conditions like sexually transmitted infections.

Menstrual Blood and Age

As women age, they may notice a decrease in the variety of menstrual blood colors. The discharge becomes darker, which is normal and not an indication of pathology.

Conclusion

The color of menstrual blood can change during menstruation, and this is usually normal. However, if you notice deviations from your usual color or other concerning symptoms, do not delay in visiting a doctor for diagnosis.

We hope this information was helpful. Thank you for your attention!