Health Steward Q&A Women’s Health

Why is the black residue so dirty on the first day of menstruation?

Asked by:Coral

Asked on:Apr 17, 2026 02:10 PM

Answers:1 Views:478
  • Mimir Mimir

    Apr 17, 2026

    The appearance of black residue on the first day of menstruation may be a symptom of oxidation or poor discharge of menstrual blood, which is usually related to factors such as the shedding speed of the endometrium, uterine cold, endocrine disorders, gynecological inflammation, uterine fibroids and other factors. It can be improved through hot compress conditioning, drug intervention, dietary adjustment, etc.

    1. Oxidation of menstrual blood

    When the amount of menstrual blood is small at the beginning of menstruation, the blood stays in the vagina for a long time. The iron in the hemoglobin oxidizes and turns black after contact with the air, forming black slag-like secretions. This situation is a normal physiological phenomenon and does not require special treatment. It will gradually disappear as the amount of menstruation increases. It is recommended to avoid sitting for long periods of time and move around appropriately to promote the discharge of menstrual blood.

    2. Palace cold

    Traditional Chinese medicine believes that cold coagulation and blood stasis may cause menstrual blood to become dark in color, accompanied by symptoms such as cold pain in the lower abdomen and sensitivity to cold. It may be related to a long-term diet of raw and cold food and insufficient warmth. Moxibustion at the Guanyuan point, drinking brown sugar ginger tea, etc. can be used to warm the menstruation and dispel cold. If necessary, follow the doctor's advice and take Chinese patent medicines such as Aifu Nuangong Pills and Shaofu Zhuyu Granules.

    3. Endocrine disorders

    Endocrine diseases such as luteal insufficiency and polycystic ovary syndrome may cause abnormal endometrial shedding and dark-brown menstrual blood. It is often accompanied by symptoms such as menstrual cycle disorders and acne. The diagnosis needs to be confirmed through six sex hormone tests, and can be adjusted with progesterone capsules, dydrogesterone tablets and other drugs as directed by the doctor.

    4. Gynecological inflammation

    Inflammations such as chronic endometritis and cervicitis will cause menstrual blood to be mixed with inflammatory secretions, which will appear dark brown and have a peculiar smell. May be accompanied by intercourse bleeding and lumbosacral pain. Gynecological examination and routine leucorrhea are required. After diagnosis, Baofukang Suppository, Gynecological Qianjin Tablets and other drug treatments can be used.

    5. Uterine fibroids

    Submucosal fibroids may affect uterine contraction, causing menstrual blood to accumulate, oxidize and turn black, as well as prolong menstrual periods and increase menstrual flow. The diagnosis can be confirmed through B-ultrasound. Smaller fibroids can be controlled by taking Guizhi Fuling Capsules. Larger fibroids require hysteroscopic surgical resection.

    In daily life, you should pay attention to keeping warm during menstruation, avoid strenuous exercise and bathing, choose breathable cotton sanitary napkins and change them frequently. In the diet, eat more iron-supplementing foods such as red dates and pork liver, and eat less cold foods such as ice cream. If the black residue lasts for more than 3 months or is accompanied by severe abdominal pain or fever, you need to seek medical treatment in time to check for organic diseases. Maintaining a regular schedule and emotional stability can help balance endocrine systems.

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