What Causes Black Menstrual Blood?
Dec 05, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Qiong
Introduction
1. Deficiency of both Qi and Blood: If there is a deficiency of both Qi and Blood, menstrual blood may appear dark in color and menstrual flow may increase.
2. Kidney Deficiency: Dark-colored menstruation may be accompanied by soreness and weakness in the lower back and knees, pain in the feet, dizziness, and tinnitus.
3. Menstrual Irregularity: Dark-colored menstruation should prompt consideration of vaginal inflammation or cervical erosion.
The color of menstrual blood is not, in fact, a reliable indicator of whether menstruation is normal. When menstrual flow is heavy and bleeding occurs rapidly, the blood tends to appear bright red. Conversely, when flow is light, the blood may appear dark brown or black. So what causes black menstrual blood? Below, we address this question.
What Causes Black Menstrual Blood?
1. Deficiency of Both Qi and Blood
A deficiency of both qi and blood can lead to dark or black menstrual blood, along with either increased or decreased menstrual volume. Menstrual cycles may become irregular—occurring earlier or later than expected. Accompanying symptoms of qi and blood deficiency may include pallor, abdominal pain, fatigue, limb weakness, and a fine, weak pulse.
2. Kidney Deficiency
Kidney deficiency may also cause dark or black menstrual blood, accompanied by soreness and weakness in the lower back and knees, discomfort or pain in the feet, dizziness, tinnitus, increased nocturnal urination, and a pale or swollen tongue. The pulse may be weak or slow. Treatment typically focuses on nourishing the kidneys and regulating menstruation.
3. Menstrual Irregularities
Some women experience black menstrual blood due to menstrual disorders. In such cases, vaginal infections (e.g., vaginitis) or cervical erosion should be considered, as both conditions commonly cause dark menstrual blood. A medical evaluation—including relevant diagnostic tests—is essential to confirm the diagnosis and guide appropriate treatment.
4. Cold in the Uterus with Dysmenorrhea
Impaired circulation of qi and blood—often attributed to “cold in the uterus”—can result in dark or black menstrual blood, highly irregular cycles, and the presence of clots. Severe abdominal and breast pain may also occur, and the tongue may appear pale and coated with a white fur. Management involves promoting blood circulation and regulating qi flow.
5. Organic Pathology or Drug Side Effects
Vaginal inflammation—such as cervicitis or pelvic inflammatory disease—can cause scanty, dark menstrual flow. Similarly, patients with diabetes or adrenal cortical dysfunction may develop this symptom as a complication. Women using intrauterine devices (IUDs) or undergoing hormonal therapy for endocrine-related conditions may also experience reduced menstrual volume and dark-colored menstrual blood.
