Most women pay attention to when their period arrives, but few stop to consider what the colour of their menstrual blood might be telling them.

The truth is that period blood can vary in colour throughout your cycle, and these changes can often provide valuable insights into your overall health.

While variations are usually completely normal, understanding what different colours may indicate can help you become more in tune with your body.

1.  Bright Red Period Blood

Bright red blood is typically considered a sign of fresh blood and healthy flow.

This colour is most commonly seen during the heaviest days of your period when blood leaves the uterus quickly.

In most cases, bright red blood is completely normal and indicates that your body is shedding the uterine lining efficiently.

3.  Dark Red or Burgundy Blood

Dark red blood often appears at the beginning or end of a period.

This colour usually means the blood has spent more time inside the uterus before leaving the body, allowing it to oxidise and darken.

While it may look concerning, dark red blood is generally a normal part of the menstrual cycle.

4.  Brown Period Blood

Brown blood is simply older blood that has taken longer to leave the body.

Many women notice brown spotting at the start or end of their period.

Brown blood can also occur after a lighter flow day when smaller amounts of blood take longer to exit the uterus.

In most cases, this is completely normal.

5.  Pink Period Blood

Pink menstrual blood is often caused by blood mixing with cervical fluid.

Some women experience pink blood during the lighter days of their cycle.

In some cases, consistently pale pink periods may be linked to low estrogen levels, significant weight loss, excessive exercise, or hormonal imbalances.

If you notice ongoing changes to your cycle, it’s worth discussing them with your healthcare provider.

6.  Orange-Tinted Blood

Orange blood may occur when menstrual blood mixes with cervical fluid.

Occasionally, orange blood can also indicate an infection, particularly if accompanied by unusual discharge, itching, discomfort, or an unpleasant odour.

If these symptoms are present, seek medical advice.

7.  Grey Blood

Grey menstrual blood is not considered normal and may indicate an infection.

If you notice grey discharge or grey-coloured blood, especially alongside fever, pain, or unusual symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional promptly.

8.  When Should You Be Concerned?

Most period colour changes are perfectly normal and simply reflect where you are in your cycle.

However, you should speak to a healthcare professional if you experience:

• Sudden major changes in your cycle

• Extremely heavy bleeding

• Severe pain

• Persistent unusual discharge

• Grey blood or signs of infection

• Periods that stop unexpectedly
  

Your Period Is a Window Into Your Health

Your menstrual cycle provides valuable information about what’s happening inside your body.

By paying attention to changes in colour, flow, timing, and symptoms, you can better understand your overall health and identify potential concerns early.

Remember, every woman is different. While some variation is completely normal, learning what is normal for your body is one of the most empowering things you can do.

At Flo Angel, we believe that understanding your cycle is an important step toward confidence, comfort, and lifelong wellness.