When To Worry? From Pink To Brown, Here's What Your Period Blood Colour Says About Your Health

While the natural colour of menstrual blood may vary from person to person and depend on factors like the stage of the menstrual cycle, it can offer insights into the woman's overall health. Though your menstrual colour isn't a definite diagnosis of a health issue, any changes can help you identify an underlying health condition. We spoke to Dr Chetna Jain Director Dept of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Cloudnine Group of hospitals, Sector 14, Gurgaon.

The health expert said, "The colour of menstrual blood can vary depending on several factors, including the stage of your menstrual cycle, your overall health, and other individual factors." Further, we asked the expert to share a guide to what different period colours may suggest.

Bright Red Period Blood 

"Bright red period blood typically indicates fresh blood and is common at the beginning of your period. It may also indicate a heavier flow. Menstrual blood is heavier on days two and three. It is usually slimy and maroon in colour. Usually, it doesn't contain any solid material. Clots in menstrual blood indicate heavy flow. Heavier the flow, more reddish and larger are the clots," the expert said.

Dark Red Or Brown Period Blood 

By the end of your period cycle, you might see this colour and it is normal. It is the older blood that has taken longer to exit your body.

Pink Period Blood 

Light pink blood is normal, especially at the beginning or end of your period. It indicates a lighter blood flow.

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Orange Or Rust-Coloured Blood 

Orange coloured blood can hint at older blood mixing with cervical fluid. Usually, it is not a cause for concern, but if the considtion persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, you should reach out to your healthcare provider.

Gray Or Unusual Period Blood

If your menstrual blood is gray or any other strange colour, it might be a symptom of an infection or underlying health condition. Make sure you consult your healthcare provider. (tips to take care of menstrual hygiene)

Black Period Colour

If you notice very dark or black menstrual blood then it can indicate older blood that took longer to leave your uterus. However, it can also be a sign of a health issue, particularly if accompanied by other symptoms such as severe pain or a foul odour.

When To See A Doctor?

The expert further suggested that if you notice unusual colours in your menstrual blood, it's a good idea to monitor the situation and consider seeing a doctor. 

Persistent Unusual Colour 

If you consistently notice unusual colour in your menstrual blood over several cycles, check with your doctor as soon as possible.

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Accompanying Symptoms

If the unusual colour is accompanied by other symptoms such as severe pain, heavy bleeding, unusual odour, fever, or signs of infection or discomfort, seek medical advice promptly. (Period myths busted)

Sudden Change In Period Colour 

If you start seeing sudden changes in your period colour that is significantly different from your normal pattern, consult a doctor to rule out any potential underlying issues.

Fertility Related Issues

If you have been facing fertility-related issues and your period blood colour seems to have changed, check with your gynaecologist.

Previous Medical Conditions 

If you have a history of reproductive health issues, such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and you see unusual changes in your period blood, consult your doctor immediately. 

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