What's the matter with black menstruation?

Black menstruation may be caused by menstrual blood oxidation, uterine cold, endocrine disorders, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, etc. It can be improved by adjusting living habits, hot compresses, drug treatment, etc.

1. Oxidation of menstrual blood

It is normal for menstrual blood to become darker in color after exposure to air and oxidation, especially when menstrual flow is light or late in menstruation. No special treatment is needed at this time, just keep the vulva clean. It is recommended to wash the perineum daily with warm water and avoid using alkaline lotions.

2. Palace cold

Traditional Chinese medicine believes that cold coagulation and blood stasis can lead to dark menstruation, which is often accompanied by dysmenorrhea and increased blood clots. It can be improved by moxibustion on Guanyuan point and drinking brown sugar ginger tea. If symptoms persist, you can follow your doctor’s advice and use Chinese patent medicines such as Aifu Nuangong Pills and Shaofu Zhuyu Granules.

3. Endocrine disorders

Diseases such as polycystic ovary syndrome may lead to insufficient progesterone, poor discharge of menstrual blood and darker color. It is usually accompanied by symptoms such as menstrual cycle disorders and acne. Six sex hormone tests are required to confirm the diagnosis. The doctor may prescribe dydrogesterone tablets, progesterone capsules and other drugs to regulate the cycle.

4. Endometriosis

Ectopic endometrium causes menstrual blood retention, which is manifested as black menstrual blood accompanied by severe dysmenorrhea and dyspareunia. It can be diagnosed through ultrasound examination. In mild cases, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules can be used to relieve pain. In severe cases, drugs such as goserelin sustained-release implants should be considered to inhibit intimal growth.

5. Pelvic inflammatory disease

Chronic pelvic inflammation can cause uterine contraction weakness, retention and discoloration of menstrual blood, and is often accompanied by lower abdominal pain and abnormal secretions. Routine leucorrhea and B-ultrasound examination are required. After diagnosis, metronidazole tablets combined with cefixime dispersible tablets can be used for anti-infective treatment as directed by the doctor.

It is recommended to avoid strenuous exercise and cold food during menstruation, and wear loose cotton underwear. If black menstrual blood lasts for more than 3 months, or is accompanied by fever, severe abdominal pain and other symptoms, you need to see a gynecologist promptly to check for organic diseases. You can eat an appropriate amount of iron-rich foods such as red dates and pork liver every day to prevent anemia, and maintain moderate aerobic exercise every week to promote pelvic blood circulation.