Black period blood without a period can be caused by several factors. Often, the dark color simply indicates that the blood has been in the uterus or vagina for a while and has oxidized, causing it to become darker. It could also be a sign of:
- Implantation bleeding: A common occurrence early in pregnancy, it can resemble a light period with dark blood.
- Retained menses (hematocolpos): This happens when menstrual blood is blocked from leaving the uterus, cervix, or vagina, leading to dark, old blood.
- Foreign object in the vagina: A tampon left in too long, or other objects like a forgotten contraceptive, can cause black discharge.
- Other medical conditions: While less common, it might be a sign of a pelvic inflammatory disease or cervical cancer.
If you experience black discharge without a period, it's important to consult your doctor to determine the cause and get proper care.