Many that use our undies know this already, but for those that might be apprehensive because they feel that they could never touch period blood, let me de-mystify it for you! Menstrual blood isn't scary or gross, dirty or toxic!
So, what does period blood consist of?
1. Blood
Duh! As you might have guessed! Unless you have any blood-borne diseases, it is just the same kind of blood that runs throughout your body, making it harmless to handle. Even if someone has HIV, period blood is safe to handle with intact skin.
This also makes up the main colour of your flow ranging in light pink to dark brown. It depends on the age of the blood coming through, but most is normal! Any other colour of the rainbow, maybe check with your doc.
@peri0d_stuff0 These are the colors of period blood and explained#period#periodblood#pads#tampons#periodsarenormal#fyp ♬ Silence - none
Period blood isn’t exactly like the blood in your veins - it’s a bit more watery since it doesn’t have any coagulating elements. That’s why our leak proof undies (especially the Charlie for those ultra fast flows) are built to handle it like a pro, so you can stay comfy and worry-free.
2. Endometrial lining
These are the clots you might get. It comes from your uterus sloughing off the lining after it isn't needed to fertilize an egg! Endometriosis or fibroids can cause you to pass larger ones more frequently along with your heavy flow.
3. Typical discharge from the vagina and cervix
This also makes sense, it wouldn't just stop because you have your period! This stuff usually consists of water and electrolytes such as sodium and potassium. This helps maintain the acidic environment to prevent the overgrowth of bacteria! Discharge is also what can cause the bleaching or holes in your undies over time because of its acidity!
Do you find lighter patches in your dark underwear? IT'S NORMAL! Your vagina is acidic and has a pH of 3.8-4.5. That's acidic enough to bleach fabric, and that's what's happening. pic.twitter.com/LxpibEK6ks
— Vagina Museum (@vagina_museum) February 17, 2021
If you don't experience much in the way of menstrual bleeding, but do deal with some discharge (even throughout the month) we also have it covered with our Regular and Light pairs!
4. Okay, some bacteria
Which is typical of a moist environment! This makes changing your period protection method (for the time suggested) important! For example, period undies should be changed within or around 12 hours. If you leave it too long, it may start to smell, but normally, the amount of bacteria present is small and also harmless! Some bacteria is also necessary for a healthy microbiome all over and inside your body.
5. Proteins, lipids, hormones
These aren’t just buzzwords from a biology class; they’re key players in your body’s natural fluids, including menstrual blood.
Period blood might also have some interesting uses!
It's being looked at as a helpful diagnostic tool for finding certain cancers or period-related illnesses such endometriosis or fibroids! It's also fascinating how quickly the lining of the uterus comes off and heals so quickly, some say with the healing powers that period blood contains - not that you should be putting period blood on cuts on other parts of your body!
Did you know period blood also has a fascinating history in the world of art and self-expression? Many bold menstruating artists have taken the plunge by using their blood as paint! Embracing its taboo nature, these creators make a splash (pun intended) by showcasing menstruation in a whole new light. Their art is a powerful way to challenge stigma and turn something often hidden into a vibrant statement. Who knew that periods could inspire such creativity?!
So now we know what it is, and that period blood shouldn't be considered gross or dirty. It’s literally just a mix of blood, tissue, and nutrients that the body no longer needs when an egg doesn't implant. The more we normalize periods and talk about them, the more we can help everyone understand that it's not dirty or harmful to handle, especially when washing your period undies!
