For way too long, periods have been shrouded in mystery and misinformation. We're here to change that. It's time to decode your flow, understand what your body's telling you, and normalise the conversation around periods.
Your menstrual blood colour is like a secret language your body uses to communicate with you. Let's crack the code together:
The Bold Red: Fresh Start
Bright red blood is your period's way of saying, "We're starting fresh!" It's a sign of a healthy, active flow, usually showing up at the beginning of your period or on heavier days.
- Translation: Your body is efficiently shedding its uterine lining.
- Possible Causes: Normal menstruation, hormonal shifts, fibroids.
- When to Check-In: If it comes with intense pain or very large clots.
The Deep Red or Brown: Winding Down
This darker shade is older blood, making its exit later in your cycle.
- Translation: Your period is wrapping up.
- Possible Causes: Normal slow flow, leftover blood from last cycle.
- When to Check-In: If you notice unusual spotting between periods, it might be a sign of an infection or hormonal imbalance.
The Pinkish Hue: Easy Does It
Pinkish blood can mean you're having a light flow, or it's mixed with cervical fluid.
- Translation: Your period is starting gently or winding down.
- Possible Causes: Early or late in your period, ovulation or implantation spotting.
- When to Check-In: If unexpected or persistent, it could signal a hormonal imbalance.
The Orange or Rust Tint: A Heads-Up
Orange or rusty blood usually happens when blood mingles with cervical fluid, but sometimes it hints at an infection.
- Translation: Your vaginal pH might be off balance.
- Possible Causes: Normal variation, bacterial vaginosis, STIs.
- When to Check-In: If it comes with itching, odour, or unusual discharge, check in with your doctor.
The Almost Black Shade: Slow But Sure
Black blood is typically older blood that's been hanging out a bit longer.
- Translation: Your period is taking its time to leave.
- Possible Causes: End of a period, blockage in the vagina, postpartum bleeding (lochia).
- When to Check-In: If it's not related to your period ending or postpartum bleeding, it might be a sign of something more serious.
The Grey or Green Signal: Get It Checked
This unusual colour is a red flag for infection and needs immediate attention.
- Translation: Your body needs some help.
- Possible Causes: Bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis.
- When to Check-In: Right away, as these infections require prompt treatment.
Decoding Your Flow:
- Hormones Matter: Birth control can change your period's colour.
- Stress and Illness Can Play a Role: They can affect your flow and its colour.
- Track Your Cycle: It's your body's diary – keep an eye on any changes.
Want to Know More? Head over to our Science Page to learn more about science behind your menstrual cycle.
Ready for a Period That Works With You? Discover Hey Sister! – your natural solution for period pain and PMS. Join our sisterhood today and experience the difference!
