Although almost half the population experiences them for a large part of their lives, periods are widely misunderstood.
This is largely due to a lack of research and education for the female body. At Intimina, we’re here to change that – one question at a time.
We enter the impasse of reproductive health – which brings us to the point. What actually comes out of the body during menstruation?
Time to find out!
Periods 101
Menstruation is the act of period. Whether you’ve just had your first period or you’ve had it for years, many people are still unclear about what’s going on in their bodies.
If you relate to this, it’s not your fault! It’s hard to find clear information about menstruation, and reproductive health education in schools doesn’t always answer the many questions we have.
What exactly is a period?
Your period is the typical monthly outpouring of blood and tissue from your uterus, coming out of your vagina. This is just one part of the menstrual cycle.
Your menstrual cycle actually lasts the entire month and includes everything from ovulation to your period. Here is a brief overview of it:
- Menstrual phase: Your cycle essentially starts on the first day of your period. This usually takes three to five days.
- Follicular phase: Your follicular phase overlaps with your menstrual phase (your period) and ends with ovulation.
- Ovulation: Ovulation usually occurs about halfway through your cycle (day 14 for a 28-day cycle). Your body experiences a sudden surge of luteinizing hormone (LH) that causes your ovary to release an egg, also known as ovulation.
- Yellow phase: After ovulation, you enter your luteal phase. During this time, the released egg (or eggs) travels from the ovary to your uterus through your fallopian tubes. Your luteal phase is also marked by increased levels of progesterone, which helps thicken the lining of the uterus in preparation for a possible pregnancy.
If you happen to become pregnant after ovulation, the fertilized egg implants by attaching itself to the wall of the uterus. If implantation doesn’t take place, your hormone levels start to drop and you get your period – starting the cycle all over again.
What comes out during menstruation?
We’ve established that menstruation is the shedding of blood and tissue, but what exactly comes out?
This won’t surprise you, but one of the main components of menstruation is, well, blood. Normal period blood can range from deep red to brown. If it is brown, this usually means that the blood has oxidized after staying a little longer in the uterus.
Another thing you will find in period blood is the lining of the endometrium. You may recognize the word endometrium from conversations around you endometriosis (or maybe you have this disorder yourself). The endometrium is the tissue that lines your uterus and can come out as clots – some Small clots are completely normal.
Bacteria are everywhere and inside us – including in your period blood. Your vagina gets wetter during your period and as we all know, bacteria love moisture. That’s why, like most things on this planet, you’ll find plenty of bacteria in your period.
One of the last things you’ll find in period blood is vaginal and cervical secretions. These secretions are largely made up of water and electrolytes and help keep your vaginal pH low (acidic), which in turn helps keep bacteria in check.
Things to watch out for
Now you know the main ingredients that make up menstruation, but that doesn’t necessarily tell you what is or isn’t normal. Knowing what to look for can help you determine if there are any questions or concerns you may want to address with your provider.
We already touched on period clots, some of which are normal, but when should you be concerned about them? Normal clots are usually rare and smaller than a quarter. You may want to talk to your provider if you pass many blood clots that are larger than a quart per menstrual cycle.
Large or frequent blood clots can be indicative of a hormonal imbalance, obstructions in the uterus or even a miscarriage.
Another important thing to watch out for is color of your period blood. We mentioned that normal period blood can range from red to brown, but watch out for any of these other colors:
- Orange blood: Unless accompanied by other symptoms such as itching or a funny smell, orange blood is usually the result of blood mixing with cervical secretions.
- Black or brown blood: This is usually harmless and usually just means that the blood took too long to leave your uterus, giving it more time to oxidize and darken.
- Pink or pale red blood: It can be indicative of a hormonal imbalance or that you are in menopause. You may want to see a doctor if you have persistent blood of this color.
- Gray blood: Gray period blood is definitely a sign to see your doctor as it could mean that there is an STD or that you are having a miscarriage. Remember that most STDs can be treated with antibiotics when caught early!
This gives you a pretty good idea of what is or isn’t normal when it comes to period blood. You’ll also want to pay attention and watch for any other symptoms like heavy bleeding, pain, and mood changes – all important data to give your provider so you have a better idea of what’s going on in your body!
Finding the right period products
Now that you’re up to speed on all things period – and what’s in your period blood – it’s time to find the best period products for you and your body.
Of course we are big fans of season cups. Another great thing about menstrual cups is that they allow you to examine exactly what your blood looks like so you can check for any abnormalities. We have a wide range of vintage cups to choose from such as Lily Cup One which is great for beginners or for Ziggy Cup 2designed for ultimate comfort.
Not sure which cup to get? Check out this guide and you’ll be on your way to your most comfortable period yet!
