Period FAQs

what does it mean when your period blood is black

by Monserrate Crona Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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It’s pretty normal to experience black blood near the end of a menstrual cycle. Black blood is old blood which was not expelled from the body as quickly as possible and was already exposed to air or oxygen which caused the change in color. Black period blood is often normal but in some cases it may be an indication of a more serious complication.

Seeing black period blood can be alarming, but like brown blood, it's usually just old blood that's lingered in your body too long. This is most likely to happen during low flow days at the start or end of your period.

Why is period blood black causes and treatments?

What causes black period blood?

  1. Normal period. During your period, it is normal to see black blood coming out of your vagina before the start or after your period.
  2. Uterine fibroid. These are abnormal growth in the uterus that can be small or huge affecting fertility in women sometimes.
  3. Uterine polyps. ...
  4. Hormonal imbalance. ...
  5. Ovulation. ...
  6. Pregnancy. ...

What causes black period blood before or after period?

There are, however, other reasons why you can have black period blood or dark spotting before or after your period. Sometimes, an irregular menstrual cycle, using birth control, and approaching the menopause can all result in dark or black blood around the time of your period.

Why do I have dark brown blood after my period?

When is brown discharge likely to occur?

  • Before and after a period. It is common for a person to have brown vaginal discharge a few days before their period, as well as a few days after it.
  • Perimenopause. Perimenopause is the time leading up to menopause. ...
  • Birth control. Certain birth control methods may cause spotting or some brown discharge. ...
  • Pregnancy-related. ...

Are you pregnant if your period has dark blood?

No, dark red period blood is not a sign of pregnancy. Implantation bleeding is a rare thing and often unnoticeable. Moreover, if it was a period then rule out the chances of it being IB. Taking a test is a reliable way to detect pregnancy. Other symptoms are either telltale or inexact signs for you while true for your friend.

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What does a black period mean?

Black blood can appear at the beginning or end of a person's period. The color is typically a sign of old blood or blood that has taken longer to leave the uterus and has had time to oxidize, first turning brown or dark red and then eventually becoming black.

Does black period blood mean pregnant?

Black blood may suggest implantation bleeding, which can happen as a sign of conception. So, if you notice black spotting and haven't had a period, you may want to consider taking a pregnancy test. You may also notice black blood during your regular menstrual cycle, usually at the beginning or end of your period.

What causes dark period blood?

You may see this color throughout your cycle, usually around the time of your regular menstrual period. When blood takes extra time to exit the uterus, it oxidizes. This can cause it to appear a shade of brown to dark brown or black in color. It may even resemble coffee grounds.

Is black blood normal?

Black period blood is blood that takes extra time to leave the uterus, becoming oxidized along the way. When blood is exposed to oxygen, it becomes oxidized and turns dark brown or blackish, similar to the color of coffee grounds. Black period blood and vaginal discharge isn't always a cause for concern.

What causes black blood discharge?

Black discharge, especially at the very end of your menstrual flow, can be a normal type of menstrual bleeding, or can occur with spotting in between periods. This is typically not a cause for concern if you are not having any other symptoms.

What black discharge means?

Black discharge usually indicates blood that has taken a longer time to leave the uterus and therefore had time to oxidize on the way out. Blood exposed to oxygen undergoes oxidation and darkens in color as a result.

Why is my period blood so dark and thick?

Your menstrual blood may be thin and watery or thick and sticky. Thin and watery period blood is usually pinker, while thick and sticky discharge is usually more brown. These changes in consistency are common at the end of your cycle. This is because most of the endometrial tissue already has been passed.

Why is my blood so dark and thick?

Thick blood is caused by heavy proteins, or by too much blood in the circulation. Too many red cells, white cells, and platelets will result in blood thickening. Another cause is an imbalance in the blood clotting system.

Does black discharge mean pregnancy?

Black discharge can be an early sign of pregnancy. It may be caused by implantation bleeding or mild bleeding as a result of the fertilized egg attaching itself to the wall of the uterus. If you suspect you are pregnant, wait until the day of your missed period, or 1-2 days later before taking a home pregnancy test.

Why is my period blood brown on the first day Am I pregnant?

Pink or brown discharge or spotting before a period may be an early sign of pregnancy. Not every pregnant person will experience this symptom, but some do. This discharge is caused by implantation bleeding that can happen when the fertilized egg burrows into the uterus lining.

What are the early signs of pregnancy?

The most common early signs and symptoms of pregnancy might include:Missed period. If you're in your childbearing years and a week or more has passed without the start of an expected menstrual cycle, you might be pregnant. ... Tender, swollen breasts. ... Nausea with or without vomiting. ... Increased urination. ... Fatigue.

What does miscarriage blood look like?

Bleeding during miscarriage can appear brown and resemble coffee grounds. Or it can be pink to bright red. It can alternate between light and heavy or even stop temporarily before starting up again. If you miscarry before you're eight weeks pregnant, it might look the same as a heavy period.

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Why is my period black?

Usually, black period blood indicates your flow is a little slower than on your heavier days. You may have black period blood at the very beginning of your cycle. If it seems your body takes a day to get your period going, you may experience spotting that looks black.

Why is period blood considered old blood?

Black period blood is usually considered “old” blood because it takes longer to come out. As your flow slows, it changes to a darker color.

Is it normal to have black blood before your period?

If you have a few spots of black period blood before your period, you may have premenstrual discharge. This, too, is usually very normal.

Is it normal to spot more between cycles?

You may also notice that you spot more between cycles. Spotting can be normal in some instances, but it is best to see your doctor if you have other symptoms.

Is it normal to have a change in your period blood?

Changes in the color of your period blood are normal and can happen at any time during your menstruating life. Here’s what it means if your period flow has suddenly gone goth.

What does it mean when your period is black?

Therefore, when period blood is black or dark brown, it usually means that there is some old blood in the flow. Depending on the amount of menstrual blood together with old blood, period blood can range from brown to dark brown to black.

Why Can Period Blood be Black or Very Dark?

Doctors from WebMD explain that if no fertilized egg implants itself to the uterus lining (endometrium), the lining is shed and this results in the menstrual period which is usually a red to dark red color. However, every woman’s menstrual cycle is different and not all women experience the same symptoms. 1

How long does implantation bleeding last?

14. However, the difference between implantation bleeding and regular period blood is that implantation bleeding is much lighter and only lasts up to two days.

Why does my period blood turn brown?

Researchers from the Palo Alto Medical Foundation say that brown discharge and spotting is just part of the “cleaning process” when your body gets rid of the uterus lining. Blood that has been in the uterus for longer becomes brown and will affect the color of your regular period blood. 3

Why does my period look dark?

11 Because of these changes to your menstrual cycle, some old blood may be passed out and cause period blood to look dark or black.

Why is my period black?

An irregular menstrual cycle may also be a reason why your period blood is dark or black. Irregular periods can result in changes to your menstrual flow which can result in old blood being passed during your period.

Why does my vagina have brown spots?

This results in dark brown vaginal spotting because of old blood in the uterus. 9

What is black period blood?

Black period blood is just “blood that’s older, that’s started to clot a little bit ,” says Rachel Peragallo Urrutia, M.D., an assistant professor of general obstetrics and gynecology at the University of North Carolina. This content is imported from {embed-name}.

Do periods show up when you wear white jeans?

AlexmiaGetty Images. Periods aren't typically a surprise—until they show up a day or two early while you're wearing white jeans. What is surprising is the sight of black blood in place of what is usually red.

Is it normal to see red on your pads?

While, yeah, it's unsettling to see anything other than bright red on your tampon or pad, it might be more common than you think. If periods are good at anything—besides, you know, clearing your body of built up uterine lining—it’s keeping you on your toes.

Is it okay to bring up black blood at an obgyn appointment?

Still, it's important to always pay attention to your body and the signs it’s giving you. If you're concerned about your black or dark blood, bring it up during your next ob-gyn appointment—while it might not point to anything scary, it's worth having peace of mind.

Does Uturria change the color of your period?

Uturria says nothing can really change the color of period blood—though if you're concerned with the amount of bleeding that comes with your period, you can talk to your doctor about birth control options like an IUD that might help reduce bleeding a bit (or get rid of your periods altogether).

Why is my period black?

Pregnancy. A small amount of pinkish, brownish or dark reddish bleeding is common in the first weeks of pregnancy because the embryo is attaching itself to the walls of the uterus. However, when this bleeding occurs ...

Why does my period turn darker?

Sexually transmitted diseases caused by bacteria, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, for example, cause a more rapid degradation of menstrual blood, turning it darker. In addition, this type of period is usually accompanied by a foul smell, brown discharge before or after menstruation, pelvic pain and a fever above 38º C. 5.

What causes a woman's period to be darker?

Some changes in a woman's emotional state, such as excessive stress or depression, can affect the structure of the uterus by reducing the thickness of its walls. This change delays the peeling of the cells and, therefore, facilitates blood oxidation, making the period darker. 3.

What does it mean when you have a bleed during pregnancy?

However, when this bleeding occurs at a later stage of pregnancy or is accompanied by other symptoms such as abdominal pain, shoulder pain, dizziness or excessive fatigue, it may indicate the development of ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage, so it is recommended you go to the obstetrician to verify if there’s any problem. 2.

Is it normal to have a period with low blood volume?

Dr. Sheila Sedicias. Gynecologist. May 2021. Whatsapp. Facebook. Generally, a period with dark and low volume of blood is normal and does not indicate any health problems, especially if it occurs at the beginning or end of menstruation. However, when this type of menstruation is recurring, it can be a sign of hormonal changes, uterine problems, ...

Is it normal to have periods for more than 3 months?

Changes in menstrual bleeding are usually normal and do not indicate problems, but you should go to the gynecologist if other symptoms or signs also appear, such as: Period lasting more than 7 days. No period for more than 3 months; Vaginal bleeding between periods; Pain in the intimate area; Fever above 38º C;

Why does my menstrual blood turn black?

Retained menses (hematocolpos) happens when menstrual blood is blocked from leaving the uterus, cervix, or vagina. As a result, the blood may turn black over the time it’s retained. The blockage may be caused by anything from a congenital issue with the hymen, vaginal septum, or in rare cases absence of a cervix (cervical agenesis).

What does it mean when your vagina is black?

Black discharge may mean that older blood is leaving the uterus or vaginal canal. Heavy vaginal discharge of any color with a foul odor is also a symptom of these infections. Other symptoms include: bleeding during or after sexual intercourse. painful urination. pain or pressure in your pelvis. vaginal itching.

What happens when you have your period?

Beginning or end of your period. Your menstrual flow may be slower at the beginning and end of your period. As a result, the blood in your uterus may take longer to exit your body and change from the standard red to a dark brown or black.

How do you know if you have a cervix infection?

Other symptoms you may experience: foul-smelling discharge. itching or discomfort in and around the vagina. swelling or rash around the genitals. trouble urinating. fever. Objects can’t get lost or travel to the uterus or abdomen. Your cervix, which is located at the top of the vaginal canal, has only a small opening.

Why does my uterus turn brown?

You may see this color throughout your cycle, usually around the time of your regular menstrual period. When blood takes extra time to exit the uterus, it oxidizes. This can cause it to appear a shade of brown to dark brown or black in color. It may even resemble coffee grounds. There are some cases, though, where black discharge is a reason ...

What is the sign of a missed miscarriage?

Missed miscarriage. Black spotting and bleeding may also be a sign of a missed miscarriage, which is when the embryo stops developing but isn’t expelled by the body for four weeks or more. Between 10 and 20 percent of pregnancies may end in miscarriage. Most happen before the fetus reaches 10 weeks’ gestation.

How long does a black discharge last?

Black discharge at the start and end of your period usually isn’t a reason to worry. A typical period may last anywhere from 3 to 10 days and happen every 3 to 6 weeks. Periods can be different from month to month.

What does it mean when your period is black?

The color is typically a sign of old blood or blood that has taken longer to leave the uterus and has had time to oxidize, first turning brown or dark red and then eventually becoming black. Black blood can sometimes also indicate a blockage inside a person’s vagina.

What does it mean when you have black blood in your vagina?

Black blood can sometimes also indicate a blockage inside a person’s vagina. Other symptoms of a vaginal blockage can include: foul-smelling discharge. fever. difficulty urinating. itching or swelling in or around the vagina.

Why does my vagina bleed pink?

During pregnancy, pink discharge that contains tissue and occurs alongside cramps may indicate a miscarriage. It is important for women who experience vaginal bleeding while pregnant to see their doctor or obstetrician.

What does the color of your period mean?

Summary. The color of a person’s period blood can relay vital health information. For example, orange or grey blood can sometimes indicate a vaginal infection. During menstruation, the body sheds tissue and blood from the uterus through the vagina. This bloody discharge can vary from bright red to dark brown or black depending on how old it is.

What does it mean when you have brown blood?

Brown blood or spotting can sometimes also be an early sign of pregnancy that doctors refer to as implantation bleeding. Brown discharge or spotting during pregnancy can indicate a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy, which is when the fertilized egg implants in a fallopian tube instead of the uterus.

Why does my period start with red blood?

Unusual spotting or bleeding between menstrual cycles may be a sign of a sexually transmitted infection , such as chlamydia or gonorrhea.

What causes heavy bleeding?

Growths in the uterine lining, called polyps or fibroids, can also cause unusually heavy bleeding. Rarely, bright red bleeding may be a sign of cervical cancer. Other symptoms of cervical cancer include: heavier periods. periods that last longer than normal.

Why is my blood dark?

Significantly dark blood may be a sign the blood is no longer in circulation or the blood is in the periphery veins of the body. Blood turns a dark red or even black-looking color when it is deoxygenated, according to Dr. Helmenstine. Humans of both genders may experience dark-colored bleeding when a wound draws blood from a vein.

What does it mean when blood is dark red?

By Staff Writer Last Updated March 31, 2020. Follow Us: If blood appears black or dark red, it means the blood has a low oxygen level, notes Dr. Anne Marie Helmenstine for About.com. Bleeding blood of this color by itself is not a cause for alarm since all blood in the veins has relatively low oxygen. Significantly dark blood may be ...

What happens when a blood clot breaks apart?

This happens when a blood clot breaks apart and is released after being out of the body's regular circulation for some time. If a woman experiences regular releases of heavy dark blood during menstrual cycles, medical attention may be required as this could suggest a blood disorder.

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