Period Blood Colors Explained | Myths | What It Says About Your Health
- Bright red: This is the most common color of period blood, and it indicates fresh blood that has not been in the body for very long. You may see bright red blood on the heaviest days of your period, or when your flow is just starting.
- Dark red: This is also a normal color for period blood, and it indicates blood that has been in the body for a longer period of time. You may see dark red blood at the end of your period, or when your flow is slowing down.
- Brown: Brown blood is older blood that has oxidized, which means it has reacted with oxygen. You may see brown blood at the very end of your period, or when your flow is very light.
- Pink: Pink blood is often seen at the beginning or end of your period, and it is caused by the mixing of fresh blood with vaginal discharge.
Other colors of period blood that may be cause for concern:
- Orange: Orange blood can be a sign of infection, such as bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis.
- Gray: Gray blood is also a sign of infection, and it can be accompanied by other symptoms such as foul-smelling discharge, pain, or fever.
- Black: Black blood is very rare, and it is usually a sign of old blood that has been trapped in the uterus. This can happen if you have a very heavy period, or if you have a condition that affects blood flow, such as fibroids or endometriosis.
Myths about period blood:
There are a few myths about period blood that are worth debunking.
- Myth: Period blood is dirty. This is not true. Period blood is simply blood that has been shed from the lining of the uterus. It is not dirty, and it is not a sign of poor hygiene.
- Myth: You should not swim during your period. This is also not true. You can swim during your period, as long as you wear a tampon or menstrual cup. However, you may want to avoid swimming in pools or hot tubs, as these can increase the risk of infection.
- Myth: You can’t get pregnant if you have sex during your period. This is not true. You can get pregnant even if you have sex during your period. The egg can be fertilized even if it is released late in your cycle.
If you have any concerns about the color of your period blood, it is always best to talk to your doctor. They can help you determine if there is anything to be concerned about.