What are periods?
What are periods?
A period is when girls, women and others who menstruate bleed from their vagina as part of the menstrual cycle.
DURATION
The bleeding may last between 2 to 8 days, if your periods regularly last longer than 7 days it may be worthwhile booking an appointment with your doctor as you may be suffering from a condition called heavy menstrual bleeding.
BLOOD LOSS
Typically you will lose between 3 to 15 teaspoons of blood in each period but some women may bleed more than this, if you regularly lose more than 13 teaspoons of blood this could also be a sign of heavy menstrual bleeding.
3-13
teaspoons
14-15
teaspoons
15+
teaspoons
Typical blood loss
Maybe speak to your doctor
COLOUR
The first two days of a period are often the heaviest with the blood being red in colour but on lighter days you may find that the blood is pink, brown or black.
RED
Beginning, end and/or heaviest days of your period, fresh blood.
PINK
Mid cycle, light bleed, period blood mixed with cervical fluid.
BROWN
Beginning or end of your period, old blood exposed to oxygen (oxidised), making it darker.
BLACK
Beginning or end of your period, old blood exposed to oxygen (oxidised), making it darker.
If your blood or discharge is orange or grey it may indicate an infection. Consult your doctor if you do have any concerns about colour changes to your period blood.
Did you know?
It's important to remember that periods are totally natural, the more we talk and share our experiences the quicker we'll break down barriers for others.
PP-UN-WHC-GB-0041 September 2023
