Menstruation, often seen as a hush-hush topic, holds many mysteries. Yet, knowing what makes up menstrual fluid is essential for understanding this natural process. In this guide, we'll explain the constitution of period blood and uncover its most important details.
What is period blood?
Period blood, also known as menstrual blood, is the blood that is discharged from the uterus during menstruation. It consists of blood, tissue from the uterine lining, and mucus. During the menstrual cycle, the lining of the uterus thickens in preparation for a potential pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occur, this lining is shed during menstruation, resulting in the discharge of blood and tissue from the body through the vagina. Period blood can vary in colour, texture, and volume throughout the menstrual cycle, and its appearance can be influenced by factors such as hormones, hydration levels, and overall health.
How much blood is lost during menstruation?
The quantity of blood lost during menstruation varies from person to person and even cycle to cycle. An individual typically loses about 30 to 40 millilitres of blood on average. However, depending on variables including hormone swings, stress levels, and underlying medical issues, some people may bleed more or less.
Menstrual blood composition
Menstrual blood is not just blood; it is a complex mixture of bloodshed from the walls of the uterus and cervical secretions. When girls have their periods, the lining of the uterus sheds, causing normal bleeding. This tissue, along with blood and mucus, makes the thin, watery discharge during menstruation. Understanding what's in period blood can help clear up myths and feel good about our bodies and monthly cycles.
Is menstrual blood pure or impure?
Contrary to common misconceptions, menstrual blood is not impure. It contains a mixture of blood, tissue, and fluids, which give it its characteristic colour and consistency. Menstruation is a natural process and a sign of reproductive health. There is nothing inherently impure about menstrual fluid, and it's essential to challenge societal stigmas surrounding menstruation.
Understanding Menstrual Blood Colour
When you have your period, the colour of your menstrual blood can tell you some important things about your body. Here's what different menstrual blood colours might mean:
Bright Red Blood:
- Indicator of Fresh Bleeding: When your menstrual blood is bright red, it means the bleeding is fresh. This blood is new and hasn't been in your body for a long time.
- Normal Variation: It's normal to see bright red blood at the start of your period or when your flow is heavy. This vibrant colour shows that your menstrual blood is flowing freely from your uterus.
Darker Shades:
- Sign of Older Blood: Darker shades of menstrual blood, like dark red or brown, mean the blood has been in your body longer and might have taken longer for it to come out of your uterus.
- Common Towards the End: Towards the end of your period, it's usual to have darker shades of blood as the flow slows down. This happens because the blood has had more time to darken before leaving your body.
Variations are Normal:
- No Need for Concern: Remember, it's totally normal for your menstrual blood to change colour during your period. It's usually not something to worry about. Your blood might look different depending on how fast it's flowing, changes in your hormones, or how long it's been in your uterus.
- Pay Attention to Changes: Even though variations are normal, it's still important to watch out for any big changes in the colour or consistency of your menstrual blood. If you notice sudden or drastic changes, like very light or very dark blood all the time, it's a good idea to talk to a doctor just to make sure everything's okay.
Overall Reproductive Health:
- Checking Your Hormones: Your menstrual blood colour can give you clues about your reproductive health and hormone balance. While it's normal for your blood to vary, if you see really unusual colours or patterns all the time, it might be worth checking with a doctor to make sure everything's working as it should.
