You weren’t expecting to see such an unusual period blood color, so naturally, you wonder if orange period blood means you’re sick. Don’t worry–your flow takes on many different colors during the days you’re on your period, and most of the time, it’s completely normal.
With that said, orange period blood can indicate a problem depending on other factors. Here’s how to know when it’s normal, when it isn’t, and what you can do about it.
Orange Period Blood Symptoms
You’ve probably had orange period blood before and just not noticed. Because your period can also carry out other cervical fluid along with it, the blood is sometimes mixed, creating a lighter than red color.
This orange color will usually look closer to burnt orange, having a bit more of a reddish tint. You can also experience orange discharge that is different from period blood. This discharge may be brighter orange or even have a yellowish tint.
What Does Orange Period Blood Mean?
Orange period blood normally means you’re experiencing vaginal discharge along with your normal period flow. Usually, orange-colored period blood is nothing to cause you alarm.
You may experience orange period blood when:
- You first start your period. A few days before your period, you may experience vaginal discharge. This discharge is usually thicker than blood and solid white. On the first day of your period, your period blood may mix with this existing fluid and cause your flow to look a little more orange than bright red.
- You are getting pregnant. Implantation bleeding (the bleeding that can happen when a fertilized egg implants in the uterus) can be orange. Normally, the color of implantation blood will be more red than orange, but a reddish-orange color is possible.
- You are finishing your period. If you are near the end of your period, you may also notice the color of your period blood turning slightly orange. This can be because your flow is beginning to slow down. As the process of oxygenation happens, your flow may change colors the longer it sits in your uterus before exiting through the vagina. The color can change from bright red to orange, to dark red and even brown and black.
Is Orange Period Blood Normal?
It can be. Normally, orange period blood is really a lighter shade of red. If you have a discharge that looks specifically orange, you may be experiencing something else.
When To See a Doc
Orange discharge that happens during or between your periods may be a sign of a larger issue.
If you have other symptoms or conditions, you may need to see your doctor:
- Other symptoms. If you experience other symptoms like burning, itching, or discomfort along with orange period blood, you may have an infection. Some sexually transmitted infections can cause you to have discharge that has an orange or yellow tint.
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Foul smell. If a foul smell accompanies your orange discharge, you may have bacterial vaginosis, a condition affecting many women that is treatable with medication.
Bacterial vaginosis can also cause you to experience burning, itching, and discomfort.
- You’re pregnant. If you’re pregnant and experiencing orange discharge, see your doctor. While some discharge and bleeding can be normal, it’s always a good idea to ensure your pregnancy is healthy.
What To Do About Orange Period Blood
Normal orange period blood doesn’t require any special attention. If you’re concerned about an infection, choose gentle period care products to keep you protected.
Rael organic cotton pads are made from certified organic cotton and don’t contain any harsh chemicals that could irritate your skin or harm your body.
Our pads are available in sizes that work and keep you comfortable, so you can get on with your day.
Get Rael
Orange period blood is probably no cause for alarm, but if you’re concerned about it, talk to your doctor. You can’t put a price on peace of mind. That’s why using Rael’s holistic, natural products is a great decision. You never have to worry about whether or not something inside our products is harmful to you.
With Rael, you get great period protection and peace of mind so that you can feel empowered during your entire cycle.
Sources:
Sexually transmitted infections|Womens Health.gov