Black Menstrual Blood: When to See a Doctor?

Menstrual blood is black?

Hello, I would like to ask about my menstrual cycle this month.
My period is delayed by over ten days, but the flow is very minimal and the blood color is dark.
Should I see a doctor, or can I wait until next month to see what happens? Do I need to ask the physician for a hormone blood test?

laura, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/07/18

Dr. Cai Yonglong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Dear Dr.
Tsai Yong-long of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Tainan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare,
Regarding the delayed menstruation of over ten days accompanied by a small amount of bleeding, the first suspicion is implantation bleeding (pregnancy), and the second suspicion is ovarian dysfunction.
Please visit the gynecology outpatient clinic for blood tests and urine tests.
Wishing you good health and all the best!
Sincerely,
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tainan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2011/07/18

More Info

When it comes to menstrual health, changes in the color, consistency, and timing of your period can be concerning. Black menstrual blood, especially when accompanied by a delay in your cycle, can indicate several things, and it’s important to understand what these changes might mean for your health.

Firstly, black menstrual blood is often old blood that has taken longer to exit the uterus. It can appear darker due to oxidation, which occurs when blood is exposed to air for an extended period. This is generally not a cause for alarm, especially if it is accompanied by a normal menstrual flow. However, if you are experiencing a significant delay in your period (in your case, over ten days) and the flow is very light, it may warrant further investigation.

There are several potential reasons for a delayed period and the presence of black blood. Hormonal imbalances are one of the most common causes. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or other hormonal issues can lead to irregular menstrual cycles. Stress, significant weight changes, and lifestyle factors can also affect your menstrual cycle. If you suspect that hormonal issues might be at play, a blood test to check hormone levels could be beneficial.

Additionally, if you have recently experienced any other symptoms such as pain, unusual discharge, or any signs of infection, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider. Conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or pelvic inflammatory disease can also cause changes in menstrual blood color and flow, and these conditions may require medical intervention.

In your case, since you mentioned that the blood is very minimal and the color is black, it would be advisable to monitor your symptoms closely. If your period does not return to normal next month, or if you experience any additional symptoms, it would be prudent to see a doctor. They may recommend a pelvic exam, ultrasound, or blood tests to assess your hormonal levels and rule out any underlying conditions.

In summary, while black menstrual blood can be normal in certain contexts, the combination of a delayed period and minimal flow suggests that it would be wise to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide a thorough evaluation and determine if any further testing, such as hormone level assessments, is necessary. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your reproductive health.

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