Certified Bodeket
Spotting or staining does not “automatically” render a woman niddah; it depends on where the blood is coming from. While this distinction may be irrelevant to medical doctors, who are focused onpathology and disease, a Bodeket can determine the source of bleeding and provide a report for your Rav, so a proper and informed halachic decision can be made.
Now you can be examined confidentially and discreetly by Channie Akerman, who was trained by the original Bodeket in Israel. Endorsed by prominent Rabbonim and numerous authors of sefarim on Taharat Hamishpacha, the exam can sometimes prevent unnecessary separation time and trips to the mikvah.
Special attention and guidance is also given to newlyweds, who are often unsure at this special time in their lives. Practical, hands-on instruction provided in how to make bedikot and similar issues.
Menstruation, or the “period” is bleeding that a woman expects to see on a monthly basis. However, there are times throughout a woman’s life that she may find unexpected bleeding. This may show up on her underwear or she may find it on tissues after using the restroom. It may be small dots of blood or it may be large stains or any size in-between. It may be red, pink, orange, brown or various shades of these colors. This bleeding is commonly referred to as “spotting” or “staining”.
In this article I will discuss the Halachic implication of this bleeding and not the medical aspect of this bleeding. Bleeding from a wound is non Nidah bleeding. Bleeding from the Uterus (usually) causes the Niddah status. Can a woman determine the origin of the bleeding on her own? Well if it’s your period, then the origin is certainly the uterus and causes one to be in the category of Niddah. However, if spotting or staining is found and you know that it is not your period, can you determine its source on your own?
The following are some guidelines to help you figure this out.
Important Caveat: even if you determine on your own that the bleeding is from a wound, you must consult a Rabbi to Pasken/ rule on your Nidah status. You may not determine on your own that the bleeding that is found does not cause you to become Niddah.
Spotting or staining from a wound is commonly:
- Bright red
- Does not usually flow out onto tissues and underwear
- Only bleeds when the wound is touched
- Not accompanied by pain
Spotting or staining from the uterus commonly:
- Drips or flows
- May occur spontaneously, without being touched
- Accompanied by discharge and secretions
- May be various deep shades of red or brown
These guidelines will help you determine for yourself the origin of the bleeding. This will be helpful information to provide to your Rabbi. He will then Pasken/rule on your Niddah status or he may send you to a Bodeket for further clarification.
Remember, spotting and staining are common during the childbearing years and is rarely a cause for alarm. However, if you have any medical concern, visit your healthcare professional. Likewise, if you find any spotting or staining during the post-menopausal time, visit your health care professional.
Your Rabbi, doctor and Bodeket are there to help you. Reach out to them.
How to Know the Origin of Unexpected Bleeding
Call Channie Akerman at (718) 756-0781 for an Appointment