Why do women have brown discharge? Is brown vaginal discharge normal or a sign of illness? Mucus discharge is normal

Unusual discharge always frightens a woman. Bloody or brown discharge seems especially suspicious. If no other ailments arise, then you can still doubt whether this is a pathology or some kind of peculiar reaction of the body to the action of hormones. But even in this case, it is better to go to the doctor, since there are quite a lot of serious diseases that do not have other symptoms. Don't put off your visit to the gynecologist until later. Eliminating the earliest manifestations of the disease is much easier than fighting an advanced disease.

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Natural Causes of Brown Discharge

The dark brown color of the discharge does not always indicate that a woman has some kind of genital disease. The brown tint appears due to clotted blood entering them, but this can occur not only with illness, but also in many other cases that do not pose a health hazard.

Discharge before menstruation. Brown coloration in leucorrhoea sometimes appears several days before the arrival of menstruation, when the mucous membrane of the uterus begins to swell and gradually peel off. In this case, the smallest vessels are damaged, and a small amount of blood coagulates and gets into the vaginal mucus, and spotting dark-brownish leucorrhoea appears.

After menstruation, brown leucorrhoea is also normal for another 1-2 days. If a woman’s blood clotting is slightly reduced, then traces of it continue to stain the discharge at this time. In addition, remnants of stagnant blood come out of the uterus.

Discharge when using hormonal contraceptives. If a woman takes birth control pills, she will experience dark brown discharge between periods for 2-3 months. There is nothing wrong with this, since the cause is a change in hormonal levels. After the body adapts to it, the leucorrhoea will again take its normal appearance. If their character does not recover, bleeding becomes more profuse, then you should consult your doctor about changing the contraceptive.

The same thing happens when installing an intrauterine device. In addition to hormonal effects, mechanical effects are also possible, which leads to damage to the capillaries. If the blood discharge is persistent, the coil is removed.

Ovulatory bleeding. With them, brown leucorrhoea appears in the middle of the cycle - at the moment of rupture of the follicle and the release of the egg. This damages the smallest blood vessels of the follicular membrane.

Implantation bleeding. The appearance of faint brownish spotting before a missed period may mean that a woman is pregnant. It begins when a fertilized egg attaches to the endometrium, damaging the capillaries. The bleeding continues for several hours.

After intercourse the appearance of weak dark discharge is explained by damage to small vessels on the surface of the vagina, which occurs if it is poorly moisturized. This condition is observed when a woman is not sufficiently aroused or there are age-related changes in the condition of the vaginal mucosa due to a lack of estrogen (during menopause).

Puberty associated with hormonal changes in the girl’s body and the development of the genital organs. Within 1-2 years after the appearance of the first menstruation, cycle irregularity and the random occurrence of bleeding of varying intensity are not a pathology. Between periods, even instead of them, dark brown scanty discharge may appear.

Beginning of sexual activity. Bloody leucorrhoea appears not only due to damage to the hymen, but also as a result of the lack of sufficient lubrication in the vagina during the first few sexual intercourses. As soon as hormonal changes occur, the work of the cervical glands, which are responsible for the production of protective mucus, will increase, and dark bloody leucorrhoea will disappear.

Note: If brown discharge is not abundant, homogeneous in composition, and odorless, then it is most likely harmless and is associated with natural processes occurring in the body.

Video: Causes of spotting between periods

Discharges due to changes in physiological state

The onset of pregnancy, its artificial or spontaneous termination, as well as childbirth are accompanied by bleeding of varying intensity and nature. They can be both normal and dangerous.

Discharge after abortion

For several more days they contain large dark clots of coagulated blood and remnants of the fertilized egg. Gradually they become more and more scanty, spotting, and then turn into regular leucorrhoea.

A pathology is the appearance of scarlet blood after an abortion, especially if it turns into real bleeding. This indicates possible damage to the uterus or incomplete removal of the fertilized egg. The woman requires urgent medical attention and, most likely, surgery.

Brown discharge during pregnancy

During the first trimester of pregnancy, a woman may experience scanty, dark, bloody leucorrhoea on days when she would normally have her period. Such “periods” mislead a woman, especially if there are no symptoms of toxicosis. She may not realize she is pregnant for several months.

In this case, the appearance of blood is associated with the individual characteristics of the hormonal changes occurring in the body during this period, the lack of progesterone. This hormone stops the growth and development of new follicles so that the embryo can develop normally in the uterus. After the formation of the placenta, which produces progesterone, the body’s condition returns to normal and scanty bleeding stops.

At the same time, spotting brownish leucorrhoea during this period can be dangerous. If the lack of progesterone is significant due to the pathological condition of the corpus luteum, then a miscarriage occurs, which is indicated by discharge. To maintain pregnancy, it is necessary to urgently begin treatment.

Dark leucorrhoea also indicates that the fertilized egg is not implanted in the uterus, but in the tubes or cervix (ectopic pregnancy). Painful sensations appear. In this case, urgent surgical intervention is required. Her life depends on how quickly a woman gets help.

Discharge after childbirth

Immediately after childbirth, a woman develops lochia, as the uterus is freed from the remnants of the fetal membrane, endometrium, and the open wound heals at the site of the separated placenta. Within 4 days, blood with clots comes out, then over another 5-6 weeks, gradually diminishing dark brown discharge appears, and only then transparent leucorrhoea appears.

If bloody lochia disappears earlier, this indicates poor contractility of the uterus and the formation of blood stagnation, and an inflammatory process occurs. Excessive bleeding indicates dangerous uterine bleeding.

Video: Brown discharge before and after menstruation

Pathological discharge

Signs of pathology are:

the appearance of dark brownish leucorrhoea with an unpleasant odor;
the presence of pus impurities in them;
prolonged presence in the leucorrhoea of clots of coagulated blood and particles of the uterine mucosa;
increasing their intensity;
unusual duration;
color change to scarlet or bright red;
feeling of pain in the abdomen or lower back, or other ailments.

The appearance of spotting dark brown discharge before and after menstruation may indicate hormonal disorders in the body, the occurrence of inflammatory processes in the uterine cavity (endometritis), in the cervix (cervicitis). Such discharge appears with endometrial hyperplasia and endometriosis due to the fact that the vulnerability of the mucous membrane increases during this period.

If brownish mucus appears regardless of the phase of the cycle, between periods or instead of them, then the causes may be diseases of the cervix associated with damage and thinning of its membranes (with erosion, leukoplakia, dysplasia). Dark brown leucorrhoea can be a consequence of uterine fibroids, polyps in the mucous membranes, ovarian cysts, or a symptom of cancerous tumors.

If signs of pathology appear in the discharge, a woman should urgently consult a doctor, as sometimes this indicates organ damage.

For most women, brown discharge that appears on their underwear raises concerns about women's health. But there is not always cause for concern.

Vaginal discharge with a brownish tint can appear both due to illness and under the influence of physiological factors. In addition to the changed color of the discharge, you need to pay attention to the consistency, odor and accompanying symptoms.

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Classmates

When brown discharge appears, then before looking for a disease, it is worth analyzing why the vaginal secretion has changed. The cause may be physiological factors:

starting to take hormonal contraceptives;
vaginal trauma (gynecological examination, rough sex);
ovulation (the follicle ruptures and the egg is released);
implantation of the embryo into the uterus (pregnancy);
heavy physical activity;
premenopause;
days before and after menstruation;
establishment of the menstrual cycle in teenage girls;
hymen rupture after first intimacy.

Ovulation phase

Brown vaginal discharge that occurs for physiological reasons is not abundant, short-lived and does not cause deterioration in well-being. Pathology can be suspected in the following cases:

discharge appears with a dark brown tint without connection with external factors (intimate contact, examination by a gynecologist);
brownish vaginal mucus is discharged profusely;
your health worsens due to pain, itching or fever;
The secretion smells unpleasant.

The reason why brown discharge occurs may be hormonal disorders, tumors, erosions or inflammatory diseases of the reproductive system.

Moderate brown discharge without odor and pain is not always normal. In chronic, sluggish processes, the only sign may be the appearance of brown discharge.

If brownish mucus appears frequently, then this is a reason to be examined by a gynecologist. Consultation with a doctor will reveal pathology or confirm that brown secretion occurs under the influence of physiological factors.

What does the consistency of the discharge mean?

When finding out the causes of brown discharge, the doctor looks at the vaginal secretion on the pad to determine the consistency. This suggests possible deviations in the functioning of the female body.

Spotting

Short-term spotting brown discharge can appear when the follicle ruptures and the egg is released, when the embryo attaches inside the uterus, or after physical exertion. If the symptom persists for a long time, then the cause of brown spotting in women is genitourinary pathology:

malignant neoplasms;
myoma;
rupture of an ovarian cyst;
uterine polyps;
endometriosis;
ovarian apoplexy.

The cause of a brownish “smudge” may be a change in hormonal levels, provoked by taking contraceptives, hormone-based drugs, or a disease.

Mucous

Brown mucous discharge appears when clotted blood enters the vaginal secretion. The appearance of a symptom a couple of days before menstruation and within 1-3 days after is considered normal.

The appearance of brownish mucus on underwear that is not associated with the beginning or end of menstruation indicates minor leakage from the uterus or vagina. The symptom is provoked by:

endometrial hyperplasia;
polyps;
erosion;
cervical dysplasia;
neoplasms.

Mucous yellow-brown discharge occurs during inflammation. Yellowness in the vaginal secretion indicates an admixture of pus.

Thick

Brown discharge is a mixture of vaginal secretion and clotted blood. The cause of the thickness is the difficulty in the outflow of bloody discharge. An obstacle to the free release of brownish discharge may be:

endometrial hyperplasia (pathological folds appear inside the uterus where menstrual blood accumulates);
tumors;
inflammation of the genital organs.

Thick brown discharge occurs with hormonal disorders due to a decrease in the secretory function of the vagina.

Liquid

Normally, the “wateriness” of vaginal secretion increases before menstruation, in preparation for ovulation, or during sexual arousal due to increased mucus production. The entry of a small amount of blood into the vaginal discharge of a healthy woman is caused by:

rupture of the follicle when the egg is released;
embryo implantation;
premenstrual touch-up.

In these cases, the discharge is light brown, does not smell and does not cause discomfort. If a smell or additional symptoms appear, then this is a sign of a disease.

With clots

Brown discharge with clots almost always indicates a pathological process:

benign tumors;
endometrial polyposis;
imbalance of hormones;

Brown discharge in women appears after taking B vitamins and iron supplements. Reddish or brownish secretion indicates an oversaturation of the body with vitamins and microelements.

With brown veins

The appearance of discharge with brown streaks indicates that a small amount of red blood cells has entered the secretion. This may be associated with ovulation, conception, menstruation, or caused by microtrauma of the vagina.

Another reason for the appearance of brownish streaks is an allergic reaction. The allergen may be hygiene products, synthetic underwear or intimate lubricants. During an allergic reaction, secretion increases and the color of the discharge changes. More often, spots with beige or light brown streaks appear on the gasket.

The frequent appearance of brownish dark or light spots may indicate gynecological infections or cervical erosion.

A change in the consistency of vaginal secretion may be a sign of illness, or may appear under the influence of external factors. It is not always possible to independently determine whether it is a pathology or a normal variant. To exclude the disease, you need to undergo an examination.

Lower abdominal pain

The combination of brown discharge and pain in the lower abdomen is always a sign of a pathological process. The appearance of a symptom may indicate the following conditions:

inflammation of the appendages and uterus;
oncological process;
endometrial polyposis;
rupture of an ovarian cyst;
genitourinary infections;
erosion;
adenomyosis.

Pain, depending on the type of pathology, can be insignificant or cause excruciating discomfort. But any pain, even minor, requires a medical examination to identify the cause.

Character of the smell

Some girls mistakenly believe that if the brownish secretion does not smell, it means there is no disease. It is not always so. With pathological processes in the genitourinary area, vaginal secretions may have a characteristic smell, or may have no odor at all.

Unpleasant

Brown discharge with an unpleasant odor often indicates gynecological diseases:

salpingo-oophoritis;
endometritis;
bacterial vaginosis;
colpitis;
neoplasms.

Dark brown discharge that smells rotten occurs during a frozen pregnancy or. Sexually transmitted diseases are accompanied by the appearance of a brownish secretion with a foul odor. Another reason why vaginal discharge smells unpleasant is a change in hormonal levels or metabolic disorders.

Frozen ectopic pregnancy

Sour

Brown discharge with a sour odor is characteristic of thrush. A brownish tone in the secreted secretion appears when a fungal infection is complicated by pathological changes in the body:

hormonal abnormalities;
inflammation of the reproductive system.

Light brown discharge appears when chronic diseases worsen against the background of candidiasis.

Sour-smelling, dark brown discharge occurs when a woman with thrush has a history of endometritis, polyposis, or adenomyosis.

Without smell

Short-term, odorless brown discharge often appears under the influence of physiological factors:

damage to the vaginal mucosa;
conception (embryo implantation occurs);
days before and after menstruation;
the beginning of menopause.

A long-term, odorless, brownish secretion indicates fibroids, endometritis and benign tumors.

If itching is present

Itchy discomfort in the perineum is not always a sign of pathology. Brown discharge and itching may appear for physiological reasons:

injuries during sex or gynecological examination;
taking hormonal contraceptives;
allergies to linen fabric or hygiene products.

But the symptom does not always indicate relatively harmless deviations. When itching and brownish discharge persist for a long time, the development of pathology should be suspected:

cervical erosion;
endometriosis;
thrush;
sexual infections;
neoplasms.

Your doctor can tell you what brown discharge with itching means. Even if the itchy discomfort is insignificant, there is no need to postpone a visit to the gynecologist: tumors, endometriosis and some other pathologies develop slowly. Mild itching may be the first sign of illness.

Copious discharge

Copious brown discharge is normal. Gradually, the volume of brownish lochia decreases and disappears, leaving only moderate secretion in the form of clear vaginal mucus.

After an abortion, parts of the damaged endometrium come out of the uterus and in the first days the discharge of mucus with brownish clots can be abundant. Normally, secretion gradually decreases and a “daub” appears, which goes away on its own.

Copious brownish discharge may appear with an ectopic pregnancy, benign neoplasms or polyps.

After examination by a gynecologist

During examination, in addition to gynecological mirrors, other instruments are used that can slightly damage the mucous membrane. A common cause of brown discharge after examination by a gynecologist: vaginal scraping. When particles of the vaginal epithelium are taken, small capillaries may be damaged and drops of clotted blood mixed with mucus. The “daub” that appears is not abundant and disappears quickly.

During hysteroscopy, cauterization of erosion and some other therapeutic and diagnostic procedures that violate the integrity of the mucous membrane of the cervical canal or vagina, the secretion of brownish mucus will continue for several days and will be accompanied by moderate nagging pain in the lower abdomen. This is considered the norm.

During procedures, gynecologists warn patients about possible bleeding and pain.

Causes of discharge with blood

Brownish secretion with blood spots before or after menstruation is considered normal if it is not accompanied by a general deterioration in well-being. Brown discharge with blood in the middle of the cycle indicates damage to the mucous membranes of the vagina or uterus. Provokes the appearance of symptoms:

damage to capillaries due to erosion or tumor growth;
hormonal abnormalities;
intrauterine device.

The appearance of spotting, bloody-brown secretion in the middle of the cycle may indicate conception or ovulation.

A girl experiences brown discharge during her first intimate contact. Red-brown impurity in the vaginal secretion appears when the hymen ruptures.

At what time can they be released?

The brownish color of vaginal secretion rarely persists permanently. More often, the appearance of a symptom is associated with a certain period of the cycle.

With a short and heavy menstruation, brown bloody clots may be released on the first day. If there are no gynecological pathologies, and the symptom recurs monthly, then this is normal.

The sudden appearance of light or dark brownish discharge indicates damage to the lining of the vagina or uterus. The cause may be tumors, polyps, endometrial hyperplasia or erosion.

Glandular hyperplasia of the uterus

In a healthy woman, the appearance of brownish discharge is associated with ovulation or implantation of the embryo into the uterine wall.

Among pathological factors, the appearance of brownish secretion is provoked by erosion, endometriosis or vaginal trauma.

1-2 days after menstruation, a slight “daub” may normally be released. This is what remains of menstrual blood comes out.

If the secretion persists longer, the cause may be minor bleeding due to endometriosis, adenomyosis or fibroids. The secretion “turns brown” due to the fact that the blood does not immediately flow out, but coagulates, accumulating in the uterine cavity.

The reason that brown secretion is released instead of menstrual blood is gynecological abnormalities:

ectopic embryo implantation;
non-infectious and infectious inflammations.

Changes in the color and nature of bleeding during menstruation occur after operations on the pelvic organs.

When brownish “periods” start and stop almost immediately, this may indicate pregnancy. Ovulation does not always occur in the middle of the cycle - egg maturation may slow down due to stress, climate change and other physiological reasons. A slight appearance of clotted blood that coincides with the onset of menstruation may be a sign that the embryo is fixing in the uterus.

A change in the color of the vaginal mucosa during pregnancy should be a reason for the expectant mother to pay close attention to her health:

a dark brownish tint indicates a threat of miscarriage;
placental abruption, depending on the severity of the bleeding that occurs, is accompanied by pale brown discharge or the secretion acquires a dark reddish-brown color;
candidiasis, complicated by inflammation of the reproductive organs, causes liquid brown discharge with a sour odor in a pregnant woman.

Scanty brownish discharge that appears from time to time accompanies hormonal changes necessary to ensure conditions for fetal growth.

A slight admixture of blood in the vaginal secretion, not accompanied by pain and other signs of deterioration of health, appears during natural physiological processes:

follicle rupture;
conception;
beginning of menopause.

A slight bruising occurs in the first month of taking hormonal contraceptives.

Prolonged or heavy bloody discharge indicates vaginal or uterine bleeding caused by diseases or tumors.

Conclusion

The appearance of brown discharge may be normal or the first sign of a developing pathology.
A one-time change in secretion, if a short-term “spot” appears, is not a cause for concern.
It is necessary to check women's health if the symptom suddenly begins to appear monthly or a lot of brownish secretion is released.
The examination will reveal pathology or confirm that changes in the color of vaginal mucus are normal.

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Discharge, as a sign of pregnancy, is a normal manifestation for the female body due to the fact that the system is constantly undergoing global changes against the background of hormonal, emotional and physiological factors. Under the influence of physiological factors, significant changes occur in the female sex, which are characterized by the formation of certain symptoms.

Sometimes they are noticeable only in the early stages of pregnancy, but there are also cases when they are detected in the form of unpleasant, tangible and visible manifestations. The most important symptom is the appearance of mucus discharge from the vagina.

The first sign of pregnancy is discharge. Therefore, a woman needs to be attentive to her health, and also control the formation of mucus secretions (i.e., note what type they are and how often they are released before menstruation). And if fishy, putrid, unpleasant odors, severe pain and cutting occur, you should make an appointment with a doctor, especially when the discharge is abundant.

The formation of discharge, as a sign of pregnancy, occurs early. In this case, vaginal secretion often changes its color. There are also additional symptoms; basically, until they appear, the pregnant woman does not perceive such changes. Brown discharge instead of your period is sometimes a sign of pregnancy. They progress when the active effect of the fertilized egg in this process intensifies. This often causes unpleasant discomfort. However, much more often the discharge of implantation bleeding is recorded as a creamy paste with a pronounced yellow or pink color. It is worth knowing that mucus of the same color appears during erosion in the cervix, which typically intensifies with the onset of pregnancy.

Identifying a symptom

Heavy menstruation, as a rule, occurs in the first and last days much weaker than in the middle of the flow. This distinguishes menstruation from implantation bleeding, since discharge during pregnancy appears much earlier than menstruation, and it is also characterized by coral, pink and brown spotting. Such vaginal discharge appears as drops and spots that do not have any particular dynamics. Experts also say that such discharge in the middle of the cycle is a sign of pregnancy.

If the pregnancy test shows a positive result, and the discharge from the genital organ is similar in appearance to menstruation, then a doctor’s examination is required. This means that the embryo has not attached correctly, and due to such circumstances, severe complications occur. When early signs of pregnancy are detected, sometimes this can occur without the formation of vaginal discharge, and, moreover, this is a completely natural phenomenon that is not a sign of pathology. If a woman experiences green or cheesy discharge after a delay, this can lead to unpleasant consequences. Treatment for this disorder is necessary to prevent miscarriage.

Reasons for education

If you experience itching, burning sensations and other unpleasant symptoms, you should seek medical help, as this may indicate a possible disorder in the body, which will have a negative impact on the course of pregnancy.

Many patients are interested in the question: “What are the signs of pregnancy?” As you know, they are different and for some women they mean nothing. However, doctors say that the main signs of pregnancy appear in the form of discharge. The reason why mucus is released is due to the fact that 7-10 days after fertilization in the egg occurs, the formation of the implantation process occurs directly under the influence of the sperm.

By external signs, this manifests itself as the formation of breakthrough or minor menstrual bleeding. Many women confuse symptoms with the fact that menstruation has begun. Discharge after ovulation is almost always expressed as a light spotting. First of all, the mucus thins as it moves away from the uterus and out of the vagina. In medicine, such periods are called fertile; mucus is separated with a transparent and viscous consistency. A pregnant woman may feel a cramping or painful sensation. In general, spotting does not last long, and signs of pregnancy in the early stages appear in the form of discharge, as well as blood, which is very similar to the onset of menstruation.

Bleeding after a missed period means the woman has an ectopic pregnancy. Also, because of this, a miscarriage can occur and this will negatively affect the woman’s health. Brown discharge is a clear sign of pregnancy, since blood does not come out of the genital organ, but a slight brownish smear appears. To find out whether this is a sign of pregnancy before the delay or not, it is worth undergoing a test indicating the amount of hCG hormones in the body.

Unusual mucus discharge during pregnancy

Some women who really want to get pregnant, but due to certain circumstances this does not happen for them, very carefully monitor any changes in the sexual sphere. When any mucus secretions form, they mistakenly predict conception. Thus, the formation of secretions before a missed period, as well as spotting in the middle of the cycle, often serve as the main reason for pregnancy. It has been scientifically proven that all pregnant women have a greatly reduced immune system. This happens so that the woman’s body does not reject the foreign cell of the embryo.

Despite such reasons, it is also quite common for the immune system to decline in the normal non-pregnant state. This suggests that candidiasis (thrush) may form. The formation of white mucus can be caused by the hormonal component progesterone. Under the influence of this hormone, a change in the environment in the vagina occurs (it goes into the alkaline phase, and against this background candidiasis is formed). There are also circumstances when, before a missed period, green discharge and yellow mucus appear.

This indicates that a disease in the reproductive system has arisen in the woman’s body, and its immediate elimination is required. Bloody discharge with the formation of unpleasant odors means that a hormonal imbalance has occurred. It is quite possible that the woman had previously taken any hormonal drugs that provoked such a symptom. The appearance of abundant watery mucus discharge indicates that an allergic reaction has formed in the body. Sometimes this occurs due to wearing synthetic underwear and other external factors. As soon as the main allergen is eliminated, the symptom goes away instantly.

The appearance of white discharge

The first signs of pregnancy before a delay are the formation of white discharge. Many women become very worried about this, although such mucus discharge is not a pathological process. Mucus is secreted directly by the gonads. The discharge from the genital organ contains microorganisms in the form of lactic bacteria, and the mucus also contains an epithelial cell, which is characterized by constant renewal.

When it is erased, a new healthy component is formed in its place. Only a gynecologist can determine the cause and type of mucus discharge. There are cases when their formation does not mean the presence of fertilization, but the occurrence of pathology in the reproductive system. The formation of curdled mucus with an unpleasant sour odor means that the woman has candidiasis.

Brown vaginal discharge

Could brown discharge be a sign of pregnancy? Brown discharge before menstruation is extremely rare; it mainly occurs during the ovulation period. At this time, the hormonal level decreases greatly, and the volume in the endometrium, which primarily lines the uterus, decreases. Due to such actions, the component peels off, and its endometrial particles appear in the form of a brown impurity.

Important! As a rule, signs of pregnancy are expressed in the form of brown discharge in the middle of the cycle. If mucus discharge occurs earlier or later, this does not always mean that pregnancy has occurred.

Mucous discharge is considered the most normal manifestation from the genital organ. As a rule, this is a pattern that happens to every woman. In some cases, this is a sign that fertilization has occurred. Doctors warn that if any changes have occurred or your health has worsened, you should not delay your visit to the gynecologist. It is better to find out in advance what changes in the sexual structure are associated with. Green discharge before a missed period means that a severe inflammatory process is occurring in the body. In this form, a thorough examination is carried out and the necessary treatment is prescribed to eliminate the disorder.

Bloody discharge during pregnancy

The normal indicator is considered to be transparent and thin mucus discharge from the genital organ. It is important to pay close attention to such formations, since the initial stage of pregnancy may be accompanied by an increase in hormones in the blood. With such a neoplasm, fungal infections and candidiasis can begin to multiply in the pregnant woman’s body. If there is itching and an unpleasant odor in the mucus, this means that an infection has occurred and medical attention is needed.

Often, vaginal discharge in pregnant women tends to change color early in pregnancy. Color may appear as yellow and brown shades. Doctors inform pregnant women that they should not worry until other symptoms develop, as this is a normal phenomenon. Many female representatives take this education as the beginning of the next menstruation. As a rule, this process has a name: implantation bleeding. Similar symptoms disappear about 5-10 days after conception occurs.

The appearance of yellow mucus from the genitals

Yellow discharge before menstruation means that an inflammatory process is developing in the woman’s reproductive system. In medical practice, it is noted that when a woman becomes pregnant, any chronic or hidden disease is revealed much more significantly than usual. The body reacts sharply to all disorders present in the body. Before conception, it is recommended to undergo all the necessary tests to exclude the formation of unpleasant symptoms during pregnancy.

When yellow discharge occurs, the immune system weakens while bacterial cells and pathogenic microorganisms begin to develop much more rapidly. All these signs may indicate an allergic reaction to hygiene products. However, if there is pain and an unpleasant odor, medical attention is required, since such a disorder can provoke spontaneous abortion.

Formation of beige and pink discharge

As a rule, a pink or beige color is formed when the activity of the fertilized egg is increased. With this process, small changes occur in the reproductive structure, and this manifests itself in the form of unusual mucus secretions. In addition, a woman may experience severe pain and spasms in the pelvis. Doctors say that implantation bleeding is often expressed by copious discharge of mucus from the vagina, which is characterized by a creamy consistency. It should be noted that the appearance of pink discharge before menstruation is considered a sign of pregnancy, since such mucus secretions are secreted from the cervix, which increases when a woman becomes pregnant. Doctors also note that spotting instead of menstruation is a sign of pregnancy.

The presence of vaginal discharge is a normal and natural phenomenon in women. But often their formation also means that the woman is pregnant. It is worth noting that in pregnant women, mucus secretions are expressed in very different forms. For many, their indicator increases already on the first day. The norm is the formation of thin, transparent discharge, without characteristic odors. If there is no discharge at all before menstruation, this may be a sign of a serious illness. Also, if thick mucus secretions form, you should seek the help of a specialist, as a fungal infection may develop, which can become more severe and harm the health of the expectant mother.

Minasyan Margarita

Vaginal secretion can indicate natural and signal pathological processes in a woman’s body, so attention is paid to it first. You can guess what brown discharge might mean based on the time of its occurrence, the duration of its course and the presence of additional symptoms.

When the symptom is within normal limits

Under certain conditions, the causes of brown discharge in women are not associated with pathology. Brownish vaginal fluid with mucus can be caused by:

inaccurate or prolonged sexual intercourse;
rupture of the follicular sac during ovulation;
conception;
beginning of pregnancy;
postpartum recovery;
adaptation to birth control pills;
intense physical activity or sports;
stabilization of the girl’s monthly cycle;
preparing the body for menstruation;
release of the remaining endometrium after menstruation;
premenopause and menopause.

If the phenomenon occurs in the middle of the cycle

During the fertile period or ovulation, blood may appear in the abundant mucous fluid of the cervical canal. At first, but after the rupture of the follicle in which the egg matures, the mucus may darken due to the ingress of coagulated blood, acquiring a brown tint. Normally, the liquid should have the following characteristics:

Insignificant volume.
Smearing character.
(see photo).
Duration up to two days.
No unpleasant odor, pain or feeling of tension in the ovarian area.

It is imperative to go to the hospital if such a situation occurs constantly, the general condition worsens, and, without interruption, turns into menstruation.

Before your period

A few days before monthly bleeding, a girl may notice traces of slight brown mucous discharge on her underwear or daily routine. This phenomenon is isolated. The fibrous structure of the secretion should not be scary, since this is how the body signals the beginning of the process of rejection of the mucous layer of the uterus.

Prolonged spotting of a brownish or dark burgundy hue a week before menstruation can be caused by:

stress;
improper diet;
strict diets;
overweight;
wrong lifestyle;
lack of sleep;
smoking, drugs and alcohol;
constant physical overstrain;
severe hormone deficiency.

Brown discharge between periods in most cases indicates a menstrual irregularity or the presence of pathology. A particularly dangerous symptom is the unpleasant odor of the secreted fluid and constant pain in the abdomen and lower back.

After menstruation

In this situation, it is necessary to pay attention to the discomfort, as well as the specific period of the cycle when this or that vaginal secretion occurs. A woman can cause dark vaginal discharge:

skipping a pill;
violation of instructions;
taking a large dose of the drug;
the wrong type is OK.

When discharge indicates pathology

Without serious knowledge of gynecology, it is difficult to independently determine why there is brown discharge, and there is significant discomfort and pain in the lower abdomen. But a woman can pay attention to the following signs, which should prompt an immediate visit to the gynecologist:

The bloody secretion is too thick or watery.
The amount of fluid released increases each time.
The gasket gets wet in less than an hour.
Blood is noted in the mucus systematically.
Sexual contact is accompanied by pain.
There is a high body temperature for no reason.
There is an unpleasant odor.
Itching and burning are felt.
There are no periods for a long time.
A large number of clots are observed during pseudomenstruation.

Often the pathological condition of the reproductive system manifests itself by the release of a large amount of secretion with blood. However, gynecological pathologies do not always make themselves felt with clear symptoms, so they can be mistakenly correlated with the consequences of stress, starvation, inaccurate coitus and other relatively harmless provocateurs. Therefore, if you detect brownish discharge of any intensity, you should visit a gynecologist. Let's consider the most common pathologies accompanied by the described symptom.

If discharge occurs instead of menstruation

This secretion may occur instead of menstruation. This is a scanty spotting secretion (up to 50 ml), which is accompanied by the following symptoms:

lower back pain;
feeling of tightness or pain in the chest;
shadow the lower abdomen or suprapubic area;
dizziness;
nausea.

The symptom may be caused by the following reasons:

Hormonal disbalance.
Pituitary dysfunction.
Endometrial injury.
Consequence of abortion.
Protracted inflammatory process.
Improper functioning of the endocrine system.
Strong physical activity.
Exhausting sports.
Beginning of pregnancy.

Why does the discharge change color?

The brownish color of vaginal fluid varies depending on the factor of origin: light brown, brown, or even black. Vaginal secretion may darken due to:

taking antibiotics;
hormonal imbalance;
worsening of the disease;
development of diabetes mellitus;
disruption of the endocrine system;
treatment with hormones.

Remember that normal secretion, once on linen after some time under the influence of oxygen, darkens slightly, acquiring a light yellow-brown tint.

Gynecological diseases and pathologies of pregnancy

The appearance of copious dark brown discharge cannot be associated with normal processes in the body. A similar sign indicates:

inflammatory processes;
sexual infections;
ectopic (ectopic pregnancy);
threat of miscarriage (from the first to the third trimester);
endometritis;
cystitis;
endometriosis;
cervical erosion;
polyps;
endometrial hyperplasia;
benign neoplasms;

Diseases may not be diagnosed for a long time because symptoms do not appear immediately. A woman may not be aware of the pathology and may not observe any obvious signs. The appearance of dark brown discharge often indicates an already advanced case, which will be much more difficult to treat. It is for this reason that you should visit a gynecologist every six months without a good reason, and immediately if you have unnatural symptoms.

Problems with pregnancy and malignant tumors are considered especially dangerous, because in these situations there is a threat to the patient’s life without timely treatment or surgical intervention.

Cystitis

When the urethra or bladder itself becomes inflamed, blood is released, which is not related to diseases of the reproductive system. After frequent urination, a woman not only notices pain in the lower abdomen or lower back. Additional symptoms of urethritis resemble the common cold. The following symptoms and characteristics of the secreted fluid should alert you:

the appearance of blood in the urine;
frequent urge to urinate;
cloudy urine;
high body temperature;
vomiting and nausea.

Infectious diseases

Infection of a woman's genital organs in the absence of timely treatment causes prolonged inflammatory processes. Such violations affect the quantity and shade of vaginal secretion. To prevent complications, women need to know the nature of dangerous brown discharge and what infections they occur with.

chlamydia;
gonorrhea;
trichomoniasis;
candidiasis (thrush);
genital herpes;
mycoplasmosis;
ureaplasmosis;
bacterial vaginosis;
gardnerellosis.

The occurrence of these diseases can be asymptomatic until the infection provokes inflammation. Each type of pathology has its own symptoms, but in any condition, brown vaginal discharge is a serious reason to visit a doctor and take a smear for microscopic examination.

Dark discharge can be considered normal or indicate the development of a pathological process in the body. In case of any ailments, you should consult a specialist and under no circumstances self-medicate. Only based on the results of the examination and tests, the doctor will prescribe effective treatment.