We all know health issues are silent, they don’t have a voice. But they do have signs which manifest as symptoms. It’s a well-known fact. But dear women, what if we tell you that even your periods can reveal significant information about your health? We’re not just talking about the timing and consistency but also the colour.
Yes, you read that right. So, let’s get into it, shall we?
The timing
While you may think that your period should come after 28 days or 30 days, having your period even after 21 or 35 days is okay too. What is not okay is bleeding frequently, i.e. after every 2 weeks and skipping periods for several months in a row. These abnormalities may result from hormonal fluctuations, structural issues in the vagina and other reproductive health problems such as PCOS.
The flow
Heavy flow
Most women in India experience heavy flow that requires them to change sanitary napkins time and time again. It is important to know that heavy flow coupled with fatigue is not normal. Excessive loss of blood and fatigue can all point to anaemia. Anaemia can also be a consequence of excessive loss of blood due to heavy flow during periods. Heavy flow may also indicate bleeding disorders like uterine fibroids and uterine polyps.
In addition, if you are experiencing rapid heartbeats, shortness of breath and also look pale, it may also be a cause of concern. Please check with your doctor in this regard.
Light flow
Some people experience relatively light flow so they do not require sanitary napkins or tampons. While this is normal if you are using birth control pills and devices, it is not normal if the flow has reduced all of a sudden or you don’t get your periods for a few months straight. Check with your gynaecologist in this regard.
The colour
The colour of your blood has more to do with the flow than with health issues. The colour varies from person to person and the day in your period cycle.
Black or darker blood:
You may see black or darker blood at the end of your period. The colour indicates how far you’re along in your period cycle. Dark blood usually means old blood, i.e. the blood that has had time to get oxidised. It stayed in the uterus and left later. In most cases. there’s no cause for concern if you see dark blood. Rarely does it point to a blockage inside a vagina. Vaginal blockage may also be indicated by odour 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 flow at the start of your period and may continue to be so throughout the end for some people. This is completely normal in most cases. Rarely does it mean cervical cancer.
Orange
You may see orange blood when it mixes with cervical fluid. It may indicate an infection like bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis. However, this is not always the case. Nevertheless, look for symptoms like vaginal itching and odour and reach out to a doctor.
Brown blood
Brown blood is usually an indicator of pregnancy. It is also known as implantation bleeding. However, if you experience it several months later during pregnancy, it may be a sign of miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy. Speak with your gynaecologist immediately.
Grey
If you see grey blood, it may be a sign of bacterial vaginosis. Other symptoms may include itching, odour and painful urination. Consulting a doctor is recommended.
Closing thoughts
Understanding your menstrual cycle can help you assess your health. Pay close attention to irregularities, symptoms, timing and the colour of your blood. If anything seems abnormal, consult your gynaecologist at the earliest. Remember, your period is more than just a monthly occurrence; it’s a window into your health.
