We all know that health problems are silent, they have no voice. But they do have signs that manifest as symptoms. It is a well-known fact. But, dear women, what if we told you that even your periods can reveal important information about your health? We are not just talking about timing and consistency, but also color.
Yes, you read that right. Let’s get started, shall we?
The right moment
While you may think that your period should come after 28 or 30 days, getting it even after 21 or 35 days is also okay. What is not okay is bleeding frequently, i.e. every 2 weeks and skipping periods for several months in a row. These abnormalities can be a result of hormonal fluctuations, structural problems in the vagina, and other reproductive health issues, such as polycystic ovary syndrome.
The flow
Heavy flow
Most women in India suffer from heavy discharge that forces them to change pads again and again. It is important to know that heavy discharge accompanied by fatigue is not normal. Excessive blood loss and fatigue can indicate anemia. Anemia can also be a result of excessive blood loss due to heavy discharge during menstrual periods. Heavy discharge can also indicate bleeding disorders such as uterine fibroids and uterine polyps.
Also, if you have a rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, and also look pale, it can also be a cause for concern. Consult your doctor about this.
Flow of light
Some women have a relatively light flow, so they don’t need pads or tampons. While this is normal if you use birth control pills and devices, it’s not normal if your flow suddenly reduces or if you don’t have your period for several months at a time. Talk to your gynecologist about this.
The color
Blood color has more to do with flow than with health issues. Color varies from person to person and from day of the menstrual cycle.
Black or darker blood:
You may see black or darker blood at the end of your period. The color indicates where you are in your menstrual cycle. Dark blood is usually old blood, meaning blood that has had time to oxidize. It stayed in the uterus and came out later. In most cases, there is no cause for concern if you see dark blood. In rare cases, this indicates a blockage inside the vagina. Vaginal blockage may also be indicated by odor during discharge, difficulty urinating, itching or swelling in the vagina, and fever.
Bright red blood
It is an indicator of a steady flow. You may have a bright red discharge at the beginning of your period and it may continue like this until the end in some women. This is completely normal in most cases. In rare cases it means cervical cancer.
Orange
You may see orange blood when it mixes with cervical fluid. This can indicate an infection such as bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis. However, this is not always the case. Nevertheless, pay attention to symptoms such as vaginal itching and odor and consult a doctor.
Brown blood
Brown blood is often an indicator of pregnancy. It is also known as implantation bleeding. However, if you notice it several months into your pregnancy, it may be a sign of a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy. Talk to your gynecologist right away.
Grey
If you see grey blood, it may be a sign of bacterial vaginosis. Other symptoms may include itching, odour and pain when urinating. It is recommended to consult a doctor.
Final thoughts
Understanding your menstrual cycle can help you assess your health. Pay close attention to irregularities, symptoms, timing, and the color of your blood. If anything seems abnormal, see your gynecologist as soon as possible. Remember that your period is more than just a monthly occurrence; it’s a window into your health.
Book a checkup for irregular periods today
