Patient's question:
I usually have my period for about ten days. The last three days seem to be a dark coffee-colored liquid. My friend says that a period usually lasts no more than seven days. Could the last three days be pus? ???First follow-up question: Does the dark coffee-colored liquid I have during the last three days count as my period?
Second follow-up question: I had a check-up at the hospital last month and was diagnosed with mild cervical erosion. The doctor recommended microwave treatment, which is best done between 3 to 7 days after my period ends. Now, I’m not sure how to determine this time. Should I count the days from the seventh day after my period ends?
Doctor's answer:
Hello, since menstruation can be affected by various internal and external factors, it is not fixed and remains normal as long as the changes fall within a certain limit. Normal menstruation should have the following characteristics:（1）Menstrual cycle For most women, the menstrual cycle is 28-30 days. Approximately 20% of women have a cycle that is slightly longer or shorter, but as long as it falls within the range of 20-36 days, it is considered normal clinically. Even if some individuals have a cycle that has always been 40 days or longer, as long as their physiological and reproductive functions are not affected, it can still be considered normal.
（2）Duration of menstruation The duration of menstruation is usually 3-7 days. The amount of blood loss during one menstrual period is typically 30-80 milliliters. Most women experience heavier flow on the second or third day, equivalent to changing sanitary pads 3-5 times per day.
（3）Characteristics of menstrual blood Menstrual blood is no different from blood in the human body, but when it flows out, it mixes with fragments of the endometrium and mucus, making it dark red, relatively viscous, and difficult to clot.
（4）Associated symptoms During the menstrual period, due to fluctuations in hormone levels, changes in blood vessel tension, and congestion of pelvic organs, the following reactions may occur:
1）Changes in mental and emotional state, such as anxiety, irritability, and headaches;
2）Mild breast tenderness and discomfort;
3）Mild lower back pain, lower abdominal pain, or a sense of heaviness.
Based on the current description, it may be related to cervical erosion. It is recommended to actively seek treatment at a hospital.