Does the color of menstrual blood tell us anything about cycle health?

During menstrual bleeding, the upper layer of the endometrium is shed. This is a hormonal withdrawal bleeding, as the progesterone level drops in the case of a non-existent fertilized egg and triggers the bleeding. Incidentally, a change in the color of menstrual blood is perfectly normal during the cycle: it can vary between light red, dark red, brown or dark brown. The color range of blood is wide because each period is as individual as the menstruating woman herself. Nevertheless, it is advisable to always keep an eye on your period, because the color and texture of menstrual blood can reveal something about your cycle health.

Brown to dark brown

It’s normal and nothing to worry about if the color of your menstrual blood is brownish at the beginning and end of your period. This is because a small amount of blood is flowing slowly at this time, chemically reacting with oxygen and oxidizing. This can also be the case at night, for example.

Dark red

A consistently dark red coloration with a texture from thick to lumpy is a sign of high estrogen levels. It is responsible for the fact that the uterus has built up a thick mucous membrane, which leads to heavy, dark period bleeding during shedding. Often, small lumps are also found at the beginning of menstruation, which are mostly completely natural remnants of the uterine mucosa. However, the dark red color of the blood can also indicate fibroids, benign tumors of the uterus. But also at the end of menstruation, before the color changes back to brownish, the blood initially turns dark red, which in this case is completely normal. Menstrual blood may also turn a dark red color during the pre-menopausal period. If you are younger and regularly observe dark red, lumpy blood or if you find a noticeable amount of tissue residue in your menstrual blood throughout your period, you should talk to your gynecologist about it.

Medium red

If your menstrual blood is medium red and fluid, this is a good sign! The blood is flowing at just the “right” pace and you are healthy. Of course, there are many different shades here as well, because every woman and every menstruation is unique and individual.

Light red or pink

Light red to pink bleeding that is very thin may be a sign of low estrogen levels. Causes can be, for example, an unhealthy lifestyle, malnutrition due to extreme diets, high alcohol consumption, or too little sleep. In this case, it is important to observe your period closely. If the color remains rather light red over several cycles, you should contact your gynecologist.

Orange or grayish

If the blood is more orange or grayish, the cause should be clarified by a doctor, because this can be a sign of infection! Also, if symptoms such as pain, burning or itching occur during your period, a doctor should always be consulted.

The color and texture of your menstrual blood can be a reflection of your cycle health. That is why it’s worth monitoring your period! If your menstrual blood is predominantly very light or very dark in color, or if you find a noticeable amount of tissue residue in it, this may be caused by illness. In these cases, please always consult your gynecologist.
By the way: For the health of the menstrual cycle, not only the color and consistency of the blood but also the length of the cycles and the strength of the periods play a decisive role. If menstrual bleeding no longer occurs in the usual way, a menstrual cycle disorder could be the reason.