How to tell if it's menstrual blood or abnormal bleeding
Jan 29, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
Menstrual blood refers to the blood discharged during menstruation. To determine whether the bleeding is menstrual or abnormal, one can observe factors such as timing, color, and whether the blood clots. There are many causes of abnormal vaginal bleeding, with common conditions including cervical lesions, uterine fibroids, and endometrial polyps. If abnormal bleeding occurs, patients are advised to seek medical attention at a hospital as early as possible to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
Menstrual blood refers to the blood discharged during menstruation. To determine whether the bleeding is menstrual or abnormal, one can observe factors such as timing, color, and whether it clots.
There are many causes of abnormal vaginal bleeding, with common conditions including cervical lesions, uterine fibroids, and endometrial polyps. If abnormal bleeding occurs, patients are advised to seek medical attention promptly for appropriate examinations to identify the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment.
1. Timing of bleeding
Abnormal bleeding typically occurs irregularly, whereas menstrual periods follow a relatively regular cycle. A normal menstrual period lasts 3 to 7 days, with a cycle length ranging from 21 to 35 days. Any deviation in duration, volume, or cycle from these normal ranges is considered abnormal vaginal bleeding.
2. Color
Menstrual blood is usually dark red. In contrast, abnormal bleeding may appear darker or even blackish, or sometimes bright red.
3. Clotting
Menstrual blood does not normally clot, and blood clots are rarely seen. However, abnormal bleeding often coagulates and may involve the formation of blood clots.
