Understanding the Causes and Normalcy of Brown Vaginal Discharge
Brown Discharge: What You Need to Know
Brownish discharge from the vagina can be worrying, especially if you are not sure what causes it. Here’s what you need to know about brown discharge, including when it’s normal and when to see a doctor.
Sometimes brownish discharge occurs at the start or end of your period. This is usually normal and not a cause for concern. Pinkish or brownish discharge can also be a sign of ovulation.
During your menstrual cycle, your estrogen levels rise, causing your uterine wall to grow. After ovulation, the level of progesterone rises, causing your uterine wall to thicken. Light spotting during ovulation may be due to your uterine wall growing but not thickening yet because estrogen levels have increased but progesterone has not.
Some women may experience a brownish discharge early in pregnancy. While it can be scary, most of the time, you shouldn’t worry about it.
Contrary to popular belief, brownish discharges cannot always be taken as a sign that you are pregnant. Gynecological examinations, contamination, and even intense intercourse can cause brownish discharge. If you’re over 45, a brownish discharge can be an early sign of menopause, especially if it’s accompanied by mood swings, hot flashes, or insomnia.
Brownish discharge can also be a symptom of pelvic inflammatory disease, an ovarian cyst, or polycystic ovary syndrome. If the discharge occurs for several weeks, occurs regularly after intercourse, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as vaginal irritation, strange odors, or cramps, it may be a good idea to call your doctor to be sure.
The case of brownish discharge due to cervical cancer is the most serious but very rare. This brownish discharge will not be the only symptom in this case. It is often accompanied by pain during sexual intercourse and bleeding afterward, heavier and longer periods, and bleeding between periods.
In most cases, brown discharge is a secretion produced by the vagina and not a cause for concern. The secretions produced by the vagina and mucous membranes are full of bacteria that guarantee its health by protecting our vagina from infections. These secretions maintain the correct pH in your vagina, providing good protection, lubrication, and hydration of the vaginal flora. For years, gynecologists have warned many women against douching, which weakens the flora.
If you notice a brown discharge, it’s a good idea to write this down to see how often they occur and whether they occur at a particular stage of your cycle or in a particular activity state. If you’re concerned, it’s always best to check with your doctor, but in most cases, brown discharge is not dangerous.
