Your menstruation cycle is a monthly phenomenon that is dependant on a number of emotional, physical and hormonal variables. All of these act together to ensure that you have a constant supply of mature eggs ready for reproduction at certain times of the month. Your reproductive system also makes sure that the monthly menstrual flow removes the inner lining or endometrium from the womb once it is not required. Sometimes, this menstrual blood remains in the uterus for a day or two before being passed out. In these cases, you will have noticed a flow of particularly dark blood that could even appear black or brown. In the absence of any other symptoms or complications, this is completely natural and is not a source of concern.
In case you also suffer from an irregular menstrual cycle, portions of the uterine lining may be shed erratically. Some of this tissue may flow out only with the next period, making the blood appear darker. However, if you are experiencing pain in your pelvis, painful periods and pain during intercourse, you could be suffering from a condition called endometriosis. In this case, the uterine tissue grows outside of the uterus instead of inside, causing discomfort and a darker discharge during menses. If you experience similar symptoms, you are advised to visit your gynecologist immediately, since one of the complications of endometriosis is sterility. In such cases, an early diagnosis and careful treatment is essential. Another reason for darker menstrual blood can be an infection or a sexually transmitted disease. If you experience any foul odor, unusual tenderness or an explained fever, please arrange for a complete check-up.
If irregular periods are causing your menstrual blood to be darker than usual, there are a few home remedies you can try out. Some women feel that parsley can increase menstruation and regularize the monthly periods. This probably occurs due to the presence of apiol in parsley, which is also a constituent of the female sex hormones. You can drink about 75 ml of parsley juice, along with similar quantities of beet, carrot, and cucumber juice. Unripe papaya is also believed to help the muscular contractions of the uterus, ensuring a timely and proper menstrual flow. However, there can be other causes for the dark color of your menstrual blood. It is recommended that you consult with a gynecologist to ensure that these home remedies are all that you require for your specific condition.