Here’s What The Colour Of Your Period Blood Means

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There are plenty of things that can affect the colour of your period blood. 

The time of cycle, how heavy your flow is, and how long the blood has been inside your body are all factors when it comes to changing menstrual colours.

Dr Samantha Wild, Clinical Lead for Women’s Health at Bupa Health Clinics, says that a change in period blood is normal, but that sometimes it can be a cause for concern… and it’s good to know the difference between the two.

Get to know the different kinds of period blood colours below, and recognise when your body is trying to tell you something.

Brown period blood

If your period blood is a brown colour, it’s usually nothing to be concerned about. Brown blood has been outside of your blood vessels for a longer time. When blood comes into contact with air, it oxidises and turns brown.

If you find that your period blood is brown frequently, it may mean that your womb shedding rate is on the slower side. Or, it could even be the last bit of womb tissue discharging from a previous cycle. Again, it’s not usually anything to worry about, but if you are concerned, have a chat with your GP.

Black period blood

Though black blood might look alarming, it’s actually another sign of older blood making its way through your body. It s usually nothing to worry about.

Sometimes, it might also have a different consistency lumpy, like coffee grounds. This shows your period was probably late and on the acidic side again, it’s usually nothing to worry about.

Brighter red period blood

In lots of instances, your period blood will be bright red at the start of your period. This is because your uterus muscles are contracting to quickly shed your womb lining.

If you find that your flow is very heavy and bright red, it could be a sign of other concerns like fibroids, polyps and ovarian cysts. If your period is regularly heavy or painful, don’t suffer alone. Book an appointment to see your GP.

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Pink period blood

Pink discharge right before your period is completely normal – it shows that your period’s on its way, as blood mixes with your cervical mucus.

However, pink discharge between periods is something you should always report to a GP. Pink, watery discharge may be a sign of cervical cancer, so it needs to be looked at.

Dark red period blood

You may notice your period changes from bright red to dark red in colour after the first few days of your period this is completely normal. At the start of your period, your womb lining sheds quickly, but then slows down. Darker blood usually shows that the blood you’re shedding is no longer as fresh, and it’s been in your body for a little longer.

Sometimes, a darker red period can indicate that your body is preparing for pregnancy, or it could be a sign of miscarriage. If you experience dark red bleeding between periods, you should speak to your GP.

Orange period blood

Orange period blood, along with itching, strong smells or discomfort from the vaginal region, may be a sign of infection. You should book an appointment with your GP to check whether you need treatment.

Other times, if the colour is your only symptom, it’s likely that orange fluid is another indication that your period is on its way.

Grey period blood

If your period blood is grey or off-white, you should book an appointment to see your GP, especially if you’re pregnant as it could be a sign of miscarriage. Grey colouring could also signal an infection such as bacterial vaginosis.

If you’re in any way concerned about the colour of your period blood or your health in general, always consult a professional. 

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