Hi there! I'm Dr. Emily, a board-certified OB/GYN with over a decade of experience in women's health. I'm here to address your concern about black period blood.

It's fantastic that you're paying attention to your body's signals. The color of your menstrual blood can offer valuable insights into your overall health. While bright red blood is often considered "normal," experiencing black blood can be alarming. However, in many cases, it's completely benign and nothing to worry about.

Let's break down the reasons why you might be seeing black blood:

1. Old Blood: This is the most common reason for black period blood. Imagine this: your menstrual flow isn't always a rushing river. Sometimes, it's a gentle stream. When blood is expelled slowly, it has more time to oxidize within the uterus or vagina. Oxidation is a natural chemical process where blood reacts with oxygen, changing its color from bright red to dark brown or black. This is similar to what happens when you slice an apple and leave it exposed to air – it turns brown. So, seeing black blood, especially at the beginning or end of your period when the flow is lighter, is usually nothing to fret about.

2. Vaginal Obstructions: Sometimes, physical barriers in the vaginal canal can hinder the smooth flow of menstrual blood. These obstructions can be anatomical, like a septate uterus (a uterus with a wall or band of tissue dividing it partially or completely), or remnants of the hymen. They can also be acquired, such as leftover tampon fragments (always double-check!). These obstructions can cause blood to pool and take longer to exit, leading to oxidation and a darker hue.

3. Hormonal Imbalances: Our menstrual cycle is a beautifully orchestrated interplay of hormones. Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels, often caused by conditions like Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) or even stress, can affect the regularity and flow of your period. This can lead to irregular bleeding, prolonged periods, and a higher likelihood of seeing black blood due to prolonged oxidation.

4. Infections: While less common, certain infections can also alter the color and consistency of menstrual blood. Infections like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or cervicitis can cause inflammation, discharge, and potentially impact the color of your flow. It's crucial to see your doctor if you experience black blood along with symptoms like foul-smelling discharge, pelvic pain, fever, or painful urination.

5. Postpartum Bleeding (Lochia): After childbirth, your body sheds the uterine lining and other tissues built up during pregnancy. This postpartum bleeding, called lochia, can last for several weeks and change color over time. It often starts bright red and gradually transitions to a darker brown or black as the flow lessens.

When to Seek Medical Attention:

While black period blood is often harmless, it's essential to be aware of potential red flags. Consult your healthcare provider if:

* You experience black blood consistently, cycle after cycle.
* You notice a foul odor accompanying the dark blood.
* You have severe pelvic pain or cramping.
* You have a fever along with the dark blood.
* You observe large clots (bigger than a quarter) in your menstrual flow.
* You have bleeding between periods or after menopause.

Remember, open communication with your doctor is key! Don't hesitate to discuss any concerns about your menstrual cycle, no matter how small they may seem. They are there to support your health and provide personalized guidance.

read more >>

Sometimes you may notice that your menstrual blood becomes dark brown or almost black as you near the end of your period. This is a normal colour change. It happens when the blood is older and not being expelled from the body quickly. Temporary thick heavy flow isn't necessarily a cause for concern.read more >>