Reviewed by Womenrx.org
Written by Anya Charlotte
Menstruation clearly defines the shedding of tissues and blood from the lining via the vagina.
While discussing the periods, the color change too is something that most females are cautious of. The bleeding ranges anywhere from red to oranges and sometimes brown to black. While the rest of the shades are fine, black discharges make one feel bothered.
Sometimes, it can be a matter of concern, and the rest of the time it can happen due to minor changes in your body.
Usually, when black color bleeding is experienced, it is due to extra time taken to leave the uterus. This change in shade occurs due to the oxidization process.
Below mentioned are the causes and reasons that promote such instances
It is retained discharge
Retained menses or hematocolpos occur when the blood is unable to leave the vaginal canals and gets stuck in the genitals making it become darker over time.
The conditions related to the hymen or vaginal septum are the reasons behind this blockage. In rare cases, the absence of cervical agenesis can be the reason. Since it is a rare condition, it can be diagnosed during the adolescence phase. If the blockage is severe and causes amenorrhea, one needs to seek assistance to improve the condition.
Postpartum Lochia
Usually, after childbirth, women are likely to come across normal bleeding and this continues for 6-8 weeks. The shade changes from reddish to black. At times, it is accompanied by small clots. Before the flow stops, the discharge begins to lighten and changes into a creamy or yellow texture. Women who continue to experience lochia that consists of plum-sized clots or foul smell need to seek assistance from a team of an expert.
It is a part of the Implantation bleeding
Sometimes the discharge indicates early conception and is confused with black or brown blood. As mentioned, it appears after 10-14 days of fertilization, one needs to understand it continues for a couple of days and further lightens.
If it’s due to implantation, one can come across the other symptoms that are accompanied.
Something is stuck
In case, there is any object left in the genitals, one can experience the black shade of the fluids. Most of the females who have forgotten tampons, rings, cervical caps, and sponges are likely to experience it. Besides the black bleeding, other symptoms too can be experienced, such as,
- Abdominal pain
- Rashes or swelling of the genitals
- Vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Difficulty urinating
- Fever
- Rashes
- Swelling in the genital area
Your cycle is about to start or end
When a woman is likely to begin with her period or end, it is likely the discharge is likely to get affected. Due to the oxidization procedure experiencing black-colored blood is common and one need not worry about the same.
If it’s nothing from the above-mentioned indications, consider seeking assistance from a team of an expert.