You may hate to see that bloody pool, but the colour of your periods reveals a lot about your health.


According to American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, every woman should keep a check on the frequency, flow and colour of their period.

This is as important as monitoring your blood pressure, pulse rate and the temperature of your body.

Periods say a lot about your hormone health. The period flow and frequency may differ from woman to woman but colour is something you should that should definitely be examined.

1. Bright red colour

A bright red colour (like cranberry juice) is a sign of a healthy and regular period. There is a possibility that what is normal for one can be different for another but in general, bright red colour is considered as a healthy period colour.

2. Pinkish colour

Pinkish colour is a sign of low estrogen levels. And if the period flow is lighter, it is also the sign of lower estrogen levels. There are studies that say if you have indulged in excessive exercising, it can lead to lower estrogen levels, which may impact your periods.

3. The watery-look

The watery look is an indication of nutritional deficiency. An anaemic woman may experience this type of period flow. If you notice this colour consecutively for two to three months, consult an expert and get your nutritional deficiencies fixed.

4. Thick red colour with clots

This is an indication of high estrogen levels but low progesterone levels. When you are chumming, you may experience some clots in the blood, which are normal. But if the size of these clots is large, then it’s a matter of concern. This is a sign of serious hormonal imbalance. If the problem continues, doctor might recommend an ultrasound.

5. Mix of grey and red

Though not so common but women suffering from serious infections like STD/ STI may notice this period colour. If you notice grey coloured chunks in your period flow, then it is also an indication that you are either pregnant or having a miscarriage. Doctor’s intervention becomes important if you notice this colour in your period blood.

6. Dark-brown colour

Usually, dark-brown colour can be seen towards the end of your menstrual cycle. During the first few days, our body sheds uterine lining and the colour of the blood is normally red. But there is a possibility that body may have older bits of uterine lining and blood is sitting around for a while. There is no reason why your body has not shed that blood and this is absolutely normal.

Dark brown colour is usually common in young girls, women on birth control pills or those who are nearing their menopause stage.

Verdict

The days, flow and level of discomfort may vary but if there is a change in colour of your period, it’s a matter of concern. Consult your doctor if you notice weird symptoms.