Why Is the First Day of My Menstrual Cycle Brown?

Irregular menstruation is a common condition among young women. Some women have menstrual cycle disorders, excessive or insufficient menstrual flow, and abnormal menstrual color, all indicating potential health issues related to the body or gynecological conditions. Normal menstrual blood is bright red or dark red. Black or brown menstrual blood may be caused by uterine coldness or gynecological diseases. Therefore, women should promptly consult a doctor and take care of various aspects during menstruation to ensure good health.

Why is menstrual blood brown on the first day? Brown menstrual blood may be related to inflammation in the female body. When menstruation occurs, menstrual blood flows out of the uterus, so normal menstrual blood should be dark red. Brown menstrual blood indicates a mixture of menstrual blood with fragments of the endometrium, vaginal epithelial cells, and cervical mucus. Shorter menstrual cycles and small amounts of menstrual blood may result in a darker color, appearing brown. Brown menstrual blood on the first day may also be related to uterine coldness, menstrual disorders, recent spicy food intake, poor sleep, and other factors.

Generally, menstrual flow is lighter on the first day and increases on the second and third days. At this time, the blood gradually loses its brown color. During menstruation, it is recommended to use a hot water bottle to warm the lower abdomen and drink plenty of warm water, brown sugar water, ginger juice, or motherwort tea, which helps to promote menstrual flow and warm the uterus. Avoid drinking cold water and eating cold food. If there are gynecological infections, seek treatment promptly to prevent menstrual abnormalities.

What to note during menstruation: 1. Menstrual blood is prone to bacterial growth, so extra care should be taken to clean the area. However, avoid using any shower gels, soaps, or cleansers, and stick to warm water to prevent reducing the area's natural resistance to bacteria. 2. Absolutely avoid sexual activity during menstruation. The female body's resistance to bacteria decreases during menstruation, and sexual activity during this time can easily lead to bacterial invasion, even affecting the pelvic cavity, fallopian tubes, and other areas, causing gynecological diseases. 3. When purchasing sanitary napkins, carefully check for hygiene permits, QS certification, manufacturer information, and product details. Avoid unfamiliar or unknown brands. 4. During menstruation, there may be discomfort in the waist and abdomen. Avoid hitting or rubbing the waist as this may worsen pelvic congestion. 5. Avoid drinking coffee, strong tea, or alcohol during menstruation, as these stimulants can increase discomfort. Stick to a bland diet and avoid spicy and irritating foods.

How to regulate light menstrual flow? 1. Pay attention to diet. About a week before menstruation, women should avoid cold and spicy foods, drink plenty of water, and consume fiber-rich foods to maintain bowel regularity. Drinking brown sugar water can also help regulate the body during menstruation. 2. Eliminate fatigue. Overexertion can affect the function of bodily organs and metabolism. Therefore, during menstruation, women should avoid intense and prolonged exercise, rest well, ensure adequate sleep, maintain a regular lifestyle, and avoid staying up late. 3. Stay warm. Avoid cold foods and, especially during menstruation, refrain from taking cold showers. If sitting for long periods in an air-conditioned room, it is advisable to cover up with a blanket to stay warm and avoid getting chilled. Additionally, women with light menstrual flow should consume iron-rich and nourishing foods such as milk, eggs, soy milk, spinach, seaweed, black-boned chickens, mutton, and black beans. Drinking brown sugar water can also help regulate the body during menstruation. Women with weaker constitutions may consume nourishing foods in moderation.