What colour should my normal period blood be?

Ah, periods. A monthly visitor (uninvited, some might say) that brings with it a cascade of questions. Among them, a frequently raised one: what color "should" my period blood be? Let's bust some myths and shed light on the fascinating- yes, fascinating! colour spectrum of menstrual blood.

A Rainbow of Reds

First things first, there's no single "normal" colour of period blood. It can range from a bright red to a dark brown, with shades of pink and even black thrown into the mix. This variation depends on a few factors:

• Fresh vs. Aged Blood: Bright red typically indicates fresh blood that's leaving your body quickly. As blood sits in your uterus and vagina for a longer time, it oxidizes (interacts with oxygen), taking on a darker brownish or even blackish hue.
• Flow Rate: A heavy flow can lead to brighter red blood, while a lighter flow might appear pinker.

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Remember, your period is unique, just like you! Embrace the natural variation in color as long as there are no other concerning symptoms.

Red Flags: When to Seek Help

While color variation is normal, certain colors might warrant a visit to your healthcare provider:

Red Alert- Bright Red Blood with Large Clots

• Typical Appearance: Heavy flow with blood clots larger than a quarter.
• What it Might Mean: This could indicate heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB), a condition affecting up to 20% of menstruating individuals. HMB can be caused by fibroids, uterine polyps, hormonal imbalances, or even a bleeding disorder.

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Foul Play- Blood with a Strong Odor

• Typical Appearance: Blood with a foul odor, similar to fish or rotting flesh.
• What it Might Mean: This unpleasant smell can be a sign of bacterial vaginosis (BV) or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Both are infections that require treatment to prevent complications.

Shades of Gray- Very Pale or Gray Blood

• Typical Appearance: Blood that appears light pink, gray, or watery.
• What it Might Mean: This pale color might suggest anemia, a condition where your red blood cell count is low,impacting oxygen delivery throughout your body. Anemia can have various causes, so a doctor's evaluation is crucial.

Other Warning Signs

In addition to color, be on the lookout for these symptoms that might accompany concerning period blood:

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• Excessive bleeding that soaks through pads or tampons every hour for several hours in a row
• Bleeding that lasts longer than seven days
• Severe cramps that interfere with daily activities
• Painful or burning urination
• Fever

Knowledge is Power

Understanding the color spectrum of period blood empowers you to listen to your body. If you have any concerns, don't hesitate to talk to our Gytree healthcare professionals. They can provide personalized guidance and ensure a healthy and comfortable period experience.

Bonus Tip- Keeping a menstrual diary can be a handy tool. Track your flow, color variations, and any symptoms you experience. This information can be invaluable for discussions with your doctor.

Remember, your period is a natural part of your body's amazing cycle. Embrace the knowledge, break the stigma, and let's talk periods openly and honestly!