We’ve all been there - staring at the colour of your period blood and wondering if it means something about your health. Is it too light? Too dark? Too brown? It’s a pretty common curiosity, and while it can be a little unsettling at first, the truth is that your period blood color can offer some insight into what’s going on in your body. But don’t stress - it’s not always as dramatic as it seems.
Bright Red Period Blood: The Classic
If your period blood is a bright, fresh red, it’s basically the classic sign of a healthy, regular period. Bright red blood means the blood is flowing freely and quickly from your uterus. This typically happens when the flow is heavier at the start of your period. It’s a good sign that things are moving along smoothly. If you’re using products like Scarlet’s super-soft period undies or the Rae heat device for relief, you’re already one step ahead in making that time of the month feel more manageable.
Dark Red or Maroon: All About Flow
As your period progresses and your flow slows down, your blood may turn darker, like maroon or deep red. This is totally normal, especially towards the end of your period, as blood has been sitting in your uterus a little longer and has oxidised. No need to panic. If you’re using a tampon, menstrual cup, or period underwear like Scarlet’s Bikini Briefs (which are seriously comfy, by the way), it’s just a sign that your cycle is wrapping up.
Brown Blood: Not the End of the World
Brown blood can freak some people out, but it’s actually pretty standard and not usually a cause for concern. This simply means the blood has been in your uterus for a while longer and has oxidised, turning brown. You’ll often see this at the beginning or end of your period, or when your flow is lighter. It’s just leftover blood that didn’t quite make it out when the rest of it did. However, if you notice brown blood consistently in the middle of your cycle, it might be worth checking in with your healthcare provider to rule out any issues.
Pink Period Blood: What’s Up With That?
If your blood has a pinkish hue rather than the usual red, it could be a sign that your flow is lighter than usual. Light periods can happen for a variety of reasons, like stress or hormonal fluctuations. If you notice this mid-cycle or consistently, it could indicate low estrogen levels, and you may want to get it checked out. But don’t worry too much. If it’s a one-off and doesn’t come with other worrying symptoms, it’s usually nothing to lose sleep over.
Clots: Normal or Not?
Passing a few clots during your period is totally normal, especially if your flow is heavier. Period blood is thicker at the beginning of your cycle, and clots are just part of the process. However, if the clots are unusually large or if you’re experiencing extremely heavy bleeding, it might be time to talk to a healthcare professional.
When Should You Be Concerned?
While period blood colour can tell you a lot about your cycle, there are some red flags you should watch for. Persistent changes in colour, like sudden, consistent dark or light blood between periods, could signal a need for a doctor’s visit. They’re there to help you figure out what’s really going on.
Disclaimer: We are not medical professionals; this article is for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting or changing any treatment. A specialist can guide you through the pros and cons to help you find the best approach for your individual health needs.
