Period blood on a pad varies in color and consistency, changing throughout your menstrual cycle from bright red and free-flowing to darker, thicker, and even lighter shades like pink, brown, or yellow.
Understanding what period blood looks like on a pad can help you know what's typical for your body. The appearance isn't constant; it changes based on the flow, how long the blood has been exposed to air, and where you are in your menstrual period.
Color and Consistency Changes
The appearance of blood and discharge on a pad is dynamic. It's influenced by factors like flow rate and time. Based on the reference provided:
- Newer Blood: Newer blood will be free-flowing and bright red. This is often seen at the beginning of your period or during heavier flow days when the blood is exiting your body quickly.
- Heavier Bleeding: With a heavier flow, the blood will appear darker and thicker. This can happen because the blood pools more or is present in larger volumes.
- As the Period Ends: As your period is coming to an end, the flow typically slows down. The blood may start to thin and turn to a lighter pink, brown, or yellow color. This change in color can occur because the blood takes longer to leave the body and oxidizes, or mixes with other vaginal discharge.
Visual Summary of Changes
Here’s a simple look at how period blood might appear on a pad at different stages:
| Stage / Flow Level | Expected Color | Expected Consistency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Start / Heavier Flow | Bright Red | Free-flowing, can be thicker | Newer blood, exits quickly |
| Mid-period / Heavy Flow | Darker Red, sometimes Maroon/Brown | Thicker | Heavier volume, may pool slightly |
| End of Period | Lighter Pink, Brown, or Yellow | Thinner | Slowing flow, blood may oxidize |
It's important to remember that every individual's period is different, and what's "normal" can vary. Observing these changes on your pad is a natural part of tracking your menstrual cycle.
