What Does Purple Period Blood Mean? Here’s What You Should Know

So period blood is weird, sometimes, and that’s a good thing to know right upfront.

Unfortunately, that’s not something most people know. For some reason, a lot of the resources out there surrounding menstruation are oddly vague about these details.

And that’s not helpful.

So let’s put an end to that now.

Yeah, sometimes your period blood can be purple. Or brown.

Or colors other, than, you know, blood-red.

And sometimes, those color changes can tell you something about your health – not always in a bad or scary way (information is power!).

But that doesn’t mean that seeing purple in your pad isn’t strange. 

Whether it’s your first period or your five hundredth, noticing an unexpected color in your underwear or on your pad can feel unsettling…or even a little scary.

But take a breath. You're not alone.

A surprising number of people Google “purple period blood” every month, and the good news is: it’s usually nothing to panic about. Your body’s chemistry, hormones, and even the timing of your cycle can all affect the color and texture of your flow.

So yes – purple period blood is a thing. And we’re here to walk you through exactly what it might mean.

Because the more you know about your period, the less there is to stress over.

First Things First: Is Purple Period Blood Normal?

Sometimes, yeah, it is.

Period blood can come in a range of shades, from bright red to deep brown to (yes) even purple.

Often, purple blood appears thicker and darker than usual. That’s typically due to a mix of older blood, cervical mucus (a gel-like vaginal substance that’s completely normal), and the natural oxidation process that happens when blood sits in the uterus a little longer before being expelled.

If it shows up once or twice and then goes back to your normal pattern?

No big deal.

But if you notice this color consistently, or it comes with symptoms like pain, odor, or irregular cycles, it’s worth checking in with a doctor.

We’ll get into the possible causes next, but know this:

Your body is complex, and changes in hormone levels, uterine health, or stress can all play a role in what your period looks like.

Knowing your “normal” is the most powerful first step.

Let’s say that again for the people in the back! One of the very best things you can do for your health is know your body (and your baseline). Start a notes app in your phone right now and use it to collect observations about your body and how you’re feeling, often. That way you have real, time-and-dated proof if things change (and when).

What Causes Purple Period Blood?

While seeing purple in your period can feel unexpected, there are a few common reasons behind this color shift.

Let’s break them down:

1. Your Hormones are Unbalanced

But don’t worry too much about it – most people’s are, at least sometimes.

Your hormones – especially estrogen and progesterone – call a lot of the shots when it comes to your menstrual cycle.

When they’re out of sync, things like flow, timing, and yes, color, can change.

A surge in estrogen can lead to thicker uterine lining, which may cause heavier, darker bleeding.

When that blood mixes with cervical mucus or takes longer to leave the body, it can take on a deep red or purplish hue.

If your periods have been irregular, unusually heavy, or showing consistent color changes, a hormonal imbalance could be the reason.

It’s a common issue. Talk to your doctor about it during your next appointment, and they’ll probably have ideas to help you enjoy a little more hormonal balance.

2. You May Have Uterine Fibroids

This is where things go from sounding a little scary to sounding a lot scary, but, stay with us. 

Remember that information is power. 

Breathe, deep, right now – and then keep reading.

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or on the uterus.

They’re more common than you might think, especially for women in their 30s and 40s.

One hallmark symptom of uterine fibroids is a heavier period, one with darker and sometimes purple-tinted blood.

That happens because fibroids can increase both the volume and duration of bleeding, and the blood being shed isn’t always “fresh.” Since blood that’s been exposed to oxygen longer turns darker (think: scabs and bloodstains), that older blood mixed in with newer, redder blood will tend to look purple.

Other signs of fibroids include pelvic pressure, frequent urination, or longer-than-usual periods.

If any of that sounds familiar, this is probably a topic worth discussing with your doctor.

3. You Might Want to Ask About Endometriosis

Endometriosis happens when tissue similar to your uterine lining grows outside the uterus.

It’s a classic “good thing, but wrong place” situation.

Endometriosis can cause painful periods, spotting, and changes in your menstrual flow, including darker or purple-colored blood.

Because this blood often comes from areas outside the uterus, it tends to be a bit older by the time it exits the body.

Which – again, older blood, more oxidation – explains the color shift.

Endometriosis can be tricky to diagnose.

But if your period comes with severe cramps, chronic pelvic pain, or irregular bleeding, it’s important to get it checked out. Once you have a diagnosis, your doctor can walk you through options to help you experience less pain with endometriosis.

4. In Rarer Cases, It Could Be Cervical Dysplasia

You know that saying – “if you hear hooves, think horses, not zebras”? 

It’s most likely that if you see purple blood, you’re experiencing a totally benign hormonal shift. 

But it’s also important to know that there are other reasons you might see purple blood.

While it’s far less common than the other reasons we’ve discussed, cervical dysplasia – a precancerous condition where abnormal cells form on the cervix – can sometimes cause irregular bleeding patterns. This might include heavier flow or a mix of older and newer blood, leading to a purplish shade.

This isn’t meant to scare you! (We’ll keep saying it: Information is power!)

Staying on top of regular check-ups and Pap smears is key, especially if you’re noticing slightly odd things about your period. This is especially true when it comes to your health.

Most cases of cervical dysplasia are easy to catch and manage early.

When to See a Doctor About Purple Period Blood

Most of the time, changes in period blood color aren’t a reason to panic. 
But your body has its ways of flagging when something’s off.

The key is knowing when to listen.

Here’s a list of cues that may also be clues that it’s time to send a quick message to your doctor… 

1. If Purple Blood Comes with Severe Cramps or Pain

Mild discomfort during your period? Annoying but normal.

Sharp, intense pain that knocks you off your routine?

That’s a signal to get things checked out, especially if any darker or purple blood you see becomes a regular thing.

Conditions like endometriosis or fibroids often come with both symptoms, and early diagnosis can make a huge difference in managing them.

2. If There’s a Weird Odor or Unusual Discharge

Period blood typically has a mild, metallic scent.

Coppery, you know – like blood.

Anything outside of that – or outside of your normal – could point to something odd going on, like bacterial vaginosis or a pelvic inflammatory condition.

If purple blood is paired with unusual discharge or odor, don’t wait it out.

A quick doctor’s visit can provide answers (and likely, easy treatment).

3. If It Lasts More Than a Cycle or Two

Seeing purple period blood once? Likely nothing to stress over.

But if this color becomes your new normal – or if your flow pattern suddenly shifts – it’s worth discussing.

Changes in menstrual color, flow, or timing can be linked to hormonal shifts, stress, diet, or underlying conditions.

A healthcare provider can help pinpoint the cause and offer solutions, whether that’s lifestyle tweaks or medical support.

4. If You Have a History of Reproductive Health Issues

If you've dealt with fibroids, endometriosis, PCOS, or other menstrual health conditions before, you're probably already tuned into tracking changes.

(Remember, note everything down in an easy-access central location. Your future self will thank you, big time.)

But spotting a new color like purple, especially if that happens alongside other symptoms, deserves a mention at your next appointment.

What Do Other Period Blood Colors Mean?

Purple isn’t the only surprise shade your cycle might throw at you.

Here’s a quick guide to understanding what those other colors could be telling you:

Bright Red Period Blood

This is the MVP of menstrual colors – fresh, steady flow, typically seen at the start of your period.

Bright red usually means your uterus is shedding its lining efficiently.

If your period is regular and pain-free, bright red is generally a sign that things are running smoothly.

Dark Red or Brown Period Blood

Noticed darker shades when your period is winding down?

Totally normal.

This color often shows up when older blood takes its time exiting your body. It can also appear first thing in the morning after lying down, thanks to gravity doing its thing.

Pink Period Blood

Light pink blood often happens when menstrual blood mixes with cervical fluid.

It might show up at the start or end of your period – or during spotting.

Occasionally, pink blood can hint at low estrogen levels, especially if it appears outside your typical cycle window.

Orange Period Blood

Yes, orange blood can be a thing!

Like pink, this color usually happens when blood mixes with cervical mucus.

But if it’s paired with a strong odor or discomfort, it could signal an infection.

Which leads us back to our mantra:

When in doubt, get it checked out.

Gray Period Blood

This one’s a red flag (or, perhaps, a gray one.)

Grayish discharge or blood could indicate bacterial vaginosis. If you see gray blood or fluid, it’s probably a good time to call your doctor.

The Bottom Line? Know Your Normal!

Your period can feel like “just” a monthly inconvenience.

And we get it. Bleeding isn’t fun (understatement!).

But your period is a powerful window into your overall health.

While purple period blood can seem alarming at first glance, it’s often just part of your body’s natural cycle.

That said, if something feels off – or if you're noticing new symptoms – trust your gut.

You know your body best, and staying informed is the first step to staying healthy.

In the meantime, whether you're dealing with light days, heavy flows, or just want to feel more comfortable during your cycle, having protection helps you focus on life – not leaks.

We’ve got you covered with comfortable, stylish, and reliable period products for you, your teen, or anyone in your life who menstruates.

Stay curious, stay confident, and remember:

No question about your body is ever too small to ask.