If the discharge is brown. Why is there brown discharge? Dark brown discharge: causes, signs of disease

Many women ask the question, why does cinnamon discharge appear? This question is difficult to answer, since there are many causes for this disease. Therefore, it is necessary to undergo a comprehensive examination to find out the exact cause and begin the necessary treatment. Vaginal discharge is a secretion, which in turn is produced not only by the uterus, but also by the glands of the vagina. If a woman has mucous discharge from the vagina that does not have any odor, then this is considered normal.

What is a normal secret? This is primarily mucus, which is secreted through the cervical canal of the cervix. In other words, mucus contains dead epithelial cells. Every woman should understand that there is no way to get rid of ordinary (normal) discharge, because it is a natural physiological process.

But, if the secretion acquires an unpleasant odor and a brown color, then this is a reason to urgently consult a doctor.

If a woman has mucus that has a brown tint, this means that a pathological process is occurring in the body. Often small amounts of blood are found in it. But, it is necessary to note an important point that not all brown discharge indicates a pathological process; it can also be a normal phenomenon. How to figure it out then? Let us give a standard classification by which it will be possible to conclude whether the brown secretion is normal or not.

Normal in the middle of menstruation:

1. If the woman was taking hormonal medications.
2. During aggressive sexual intercourse.
3. At the first unprotected sexual intercourse.
4. Often occur before the onset of menstruation.

Discharge of an unpleasant odor with a brown tint, which indicates pathology:

1. If a woman experiences similar mucus in the middle of her period, taking into account the fact that hormonal drugs have not been used previously.
2. Often occur during menopause, this is also a reason to immediately consult a doctor.
3. If the secretion appears after sexual intercourse, the woman additionally experiences severe pain.

Now we can draw a small conclusion which brown discharge is normal and which is not. Now let's look at the reasons for their occurrence in more detail.

Causes of brown discharge in women

Sexual crisis, not many have heard of such a concept. The fact is that these discharges can occur in newborns. Since there are many hormones (maternal) in the body.

The second reason is the onset of menstruation. Brown mucus is often discharged before your period. But to distinguish it from pathology, it must have a spreading consistency. The cause of discharge during this period is a change in secretion, directly due to hormonal changes in the body.

The third, no less common reason is the occurrence of polyposis. This disease is characterized by the appearance of multiple benign neoplasms in the uterus or ovaries. If measures are not taken in a timely manner, the neoplasms can develop into cancer. Against this background, serious health problems may arise.

Additional reasons:

1. If there is a hormonal imbalance in the body.
2. They can talk about growth of the mucous membrane itself, of a pathological nature.
3. If a woman has a malignant tumor in her uterus.
4. Benign or malignant formations on the cervix or in the vagina itself.

In addition to these reasons, a secretion with a not very pleasant odor occurs due to erosion, or if the fertilized egg is attached to the uterine mucosa.

Infectious causes should also be noted. For example, they can occur with trichomoniasis. This disease is transmitted sexually.

A woman with trichomoniasis experiences severe itching, dryness and burning. It should be noted that with this course of the disease, the woman develops copious discharge, which has a rich brown-orange color.

Gonorrhea is another disease that is accompanied not only by brown discharge, but also by pain and severe itching. In addition, with gonorrhea, urination is impaired. As a rule, mucus with gonorrhea indicates an advanced course of the disease.

Chronic pathologies and brown discharge

In women of reproductive age, brown discharge may indicate chronic pathologies. In most cases, they occur with endometritis. With this disease, the inflammatory process occurs on the mucous membrane. Endometritis can occur after intrauterine interventions or after frequent miscarriages. With this disease, a woman not only experiences brown discharge, but also experiences severe pain that can radiate to the abdomen and back.

The second chronic disease is. In this case, the main cause of discharge and other symptoms is the rapid growth of endometrial nodules, directly outside the uterine cavity.

The third sign is the occurrence of hyperplasia. With this phenomenon, excessive growth is observed, as well as compaction of the inner lining, in particular in the uterine cavity.

The most dangerous conditions

While gynecological diseases can be quickly cured, some dangerous conditions require more thorough treatment.

Brown discharge can occur with tumors of the ovary, uterus or cervix. It should be noted that the tumor can be both benign and malignant.

The main danger of this condition is that at the initial stage the tumor is almost impossible to detect, since there is no clear clinical picture.

How to determine a tumor:

1. If after sex or before (after) menstruation you experience brown discharge or spotting.
2. If they have bloody clots, they resemble the appearance of meat slop.
3. When pain occurs.
4. Discomfort during urination.
5. The act of defecation is disrupted.
6. Unmotivated weight loss.

As soon as the above symptoms occur, you should immediately consult a doctor. It is recommended that in order to promptly identify a dangerous pathological process, it is necessary to periodically visit a gynecologist and undergo an ultrasound examination.

Brown discharge in women after menstruation

If the discharge continues 1-2 days after menstruation, then this is considered normal. But, if they last for 3-5 days, you should immediately consult a doctor.

1. May occur as a side effect, for example, after using oral contraceptives.
2. If after menstruation a woman used intrauterine contraception.
3. In more severe cases, brown discharge after menstruation may indicate the presence of a polyp in the cervix or in the uterus itself.

According to statistical data, it was also noted that these discharges in women often occur when the mucous membrane grows directly in the uterine cavity.

Can brown discharge occur instead of menstruation?

Yes, as a rule, it indicates pregnancy. Therefore, during this period they can continue until the end of the first trimester of pregnancy. The cause is a complete hormonal change in the body.

But, if brown vaginal discharge occurs, which in turn has an unpleasant odor, then this indicates a frozen pregnancy or the beginning of an inflammatory process in the uterine cavity.

Therefore, as soon as you notice an unpleasant odor, you must immediately consult a doctor in order to promptly prevent severe intoxication of the body.

Brown discharge after sex

As mentioned above, brown discharge after sex can be normal or indicate serious problems. Therefore, to determine the nature of the mucus, you need to see a doctor and undergo a comprehensive examination.

What could be:

1. After sex, brown discharge may indicate a benign pathological process in which columnar epithelium begins to line the cervical canal. This phenomenon in medical practice is called ectopia of the cervix.
2. If the epithelial cover is damaged, for example with. In addition to discharge, erosion causes an unpleasant odor, itching and burning of the genitals.

In order to identify the exact cause, it is necessary to take a smear not only for flora, but also for cytology.

Diagnostic measures to identify pathology

First, the doctor needs to rule out pregnancy, so the woman is examined in the mirrors on the gynecological chair.

After which they prescribe:

1. Clinical blood test.
2. Biochemical blood test (detailed).
3. A blood sample is taken from the woman to determine hormone levels.
4. A test for sex hormones is carried out, and the level of the thyroid gland is determined.
5. It is mandatory to undergo microflora analysis; material is collected from the vaginal mucosa.

If necessary, the woman is prescribed a PAP smear; the material for the study is taken from the cervical canal.

If there is a clear suspicion of a pathological process or benign formation, it is necessary to undergo an additional biopsy.

As an instrumental diagnosis, a woman can be prescribed an ultrasound using ultrasonography, and hysteroscopy is also performed.

As you can see, there are many reasons for the occurrence of these discharges. Therefore, it is necessary to carefully monitor your health. As soon as discomfort occurs and the mucus acquires an unpleasant odor and a peculiar consistency, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible.

Preventive actions

A timely visit to a doctor plays an important role. Therefore, it is necessary to undergo preventive examinations every six months in order to identify the disease at the initial stage of its development.

The menstrual cycle is a process regulated by hormones. During it, the endometrium gradually grows. In the absence of pregnancy, this process ends with its rejection and release with menstrual blood. This period takes on average 5 days.

But sometimes bloody brown discharge of varying intensity appears on other days. The reasons for this depend on the age and condition of the body.

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  1. In children and adolescents

  For the first time, brown discharge may appear in newborn girls on the 4th-5th day of life. This is a physiological condition called sexual crisis.

  It occurs under the influence of a sharp drop in estrogen levels after birth. Sexual crisis is observed in 70% of newborns and indicates the child’s normal adaptation. It lasts no longer than 2 days and does not require special treatment. Typically, the volume of blood released does not exceed 2 ml.

  If a mother notices brown discharge on a preschool girl’s underwear, then she needs to think about the child’s personal hygiene. Neglect of water procedures, uncomfortable underwear, enterobiasis lead to the development of and.

  They are characterized by an increase in the amount of discharge, the appearance of an unpleasant odor, redness of the vulva area, and intense itching. The child involuntarily adjusts his panties and fidgets. Daytime and night sleep is disturbed, he becomes restless, anxious with frequent waking up.

  If the itching is severe, the girl will scratch the problem areas. Sometimes this results in small drops of blood appearing on your underwear.

  Before puberty, the reasons for the appearance of bloody discharge may be the following:

  • inflammatory diseases (vulvitis and vulvovaginitis);
  • foreign bodies in the vagina;
  • trauma and violence;
  • very rarely - tumors.

  In rare cases, bleeding may occur due to the entry of large amounts of estrogen into the body. These can be tablet medications taken without asking the mother, as well as vaginal creams with estrogen (for example, in the treatment of synechiae).

  Hormonal imbalance that occurs due to stress, endocrinological diseases, or taking certain medications can also cause brownish bleeding. This is more often observed with hyperestrogenism. In the middle of the cycle, spotting may be associated with a sharp drop in hormone levels after ovulation. Its duration in this case does not exceed 2-3 days.

  2.2. Endometriosis

  The growth of the endometrium in atypical places may be accompanied by the appearance of spotting and bleeding between menstruation. This condition is associated with relative hyperestrogenism. Foci of endometriosis have their own hormonal activity.

  Sometimes dark, almost black, thick discharge is observed a few days after the end of menstruation. This condition is observed with endometriosis of the uterus - adenomyosis. It is associated with delayed emptying of the endometrioid cavities, which penetrate the wall of the uterus and resemble a honeycomb. During menstruation, the endometrium is shed, and only after a few days does it release these cavities.

  Treatment of this pathology depends on its severity. For mild endometriosis, hormonal drugs are used, while severe endometriosis requires surgical intervention.

  2.3. Ectopic pregnancy

  The attachment of the fertilized egg outside the uterine cavity is called an ectopic pregnancy. The most common is tubal pregnancy, but the embryo can attach in other places:

  • in the cervix;
  • in the abdominal cavity;
  • on the surface of the ovary;
  • in the rudimentary uterine horn.

  A woman may not be aware that she is pregnant, especially if she has an irregular menstrual cycle. But such a pregnancy ends in abortion. The severity of the symptoms of its interruption will depend on the place of attachment of the fertilized egg.

  When the fallopian tube ruptures, acute bleeding into the abdominal cavity begins. Therefore, clinical manifestations appear suddenly and are accompanied by a sharp deterioration in condition. The main bleeding opens into the abdominal cavity; there may not be any discharge of blood from the vagina.

  An interrupted ectopic pregnancy, such as a tubal abortion, has more subtle symptoms. This condition will manifest itself as follows:

  1. 1 The increase in clinical symptoms is prolonged – from several days to weeks.
  2. 2 Complaints of paroxysmal pain in the lower abdomen.
  3. 3 The discharge is scanty, spotting, brown or almost black.
  4. 4 Sometimes you may experience dizziness, vomiting, nausea, and weakness.

  In ovarian pregnancy, termination occurs early. The symptoms are similar to tubal abortion. Cervical pregnancy poses a great danger. At first there will be no symptoms. Then spotting dark brown discharge appears. As pregnancy progresses, the risk of profuse bleeding increases. Has a poor prognosis. Curettage to interrupt it is almost impossible - this is a huge risk of massive bleeding that threatens life.

  In the short term, it is possible to terminate pregnancy using cytostatics (Methotrexate), as well as embolization of the uterine arteries. As pregnancy progresses, massive bleeding is an indication for hysterectomy.

  2.4. Ovarian apoplexy

  This is an emergency condition that results from hemorrhage in the ovarian tissue. Often occurs during the ovulation phase.

  The severity of bleeding depends on the form of the disease. With anemic apoplexy, bleeding into the abdominal cavity predominates. Therefore, a large amount of blood can be released from the vagina, and the general condition of the body is characterized by acute significant blood loss. Symptoms of apoplexy:

  • decreased blood pressure;
  • tachycardia;
  • pallor, dizziness;
  • acute abdominal pain;
  • unexpressed symptoms of peritoneal irritation.

  The painful form of apoplexy is characterized by bleeding in the ovarian tissue. Therefore, scanty brownish discharge is observed from the genital tract. Clinical picture: paroxysmal pain, acute onset of the disease, nausea, vomiting.

  Treatment of apoplexy depends on its form. In the absence of signs of bleeding, with a stable condition, you can be treated conservatively:

  • coldness in the lower abdomen;
  • hemostatics;
  • antibiotics;
  • vitamins.

  Treatment is carried out in a hospital setting under constant supervision. If the condition worsens and blood loss continues, surgical treatment is necessary.

  2.5. During pregnancy

  The appearance of brownish discharge in a pregnant woman should alert you. Only in some cases can this be considered a variant of the norm:

  1. 1 At the beginning of pregnancy, when implantation of the fertilized egg occurs. Bloody discharge may appear after a few days of missed period. In intensity and appearance they will be very different from menstrual ones. Usually last no more than 3 days.
  2. 2 At the end of pregnancy, when the cervix is ​​preparing for childbirth. Brown discharge mixed with mucus is a sign of a plug coming out of the cervix.

  In the early stages of pregnancy, the appearance of brown discharge is associated with the threat of miscarriage. In this case, nagging pain may appear in the lower abdomen, lower back, or perineum.

  This condition is often associated with insufficient progesterone in the blood. It is corrected by prescribing progesterone drugs: Duphaston, Utrozhestan.

  To maintain pregnancy, they must be taken until the placenta forms, after which it takes over the function of progesterone synthesis. Usually occurs around 16 weeks. But in some cases, progesterone is discontinued only at 20 weeks.

  In the second and third trimester, the appearance of brown spotting is also associated with a threat to the further progression of pregnancy. This may mean the beginning of abruption of a normally located placenta.

  When placenta previa is diagnosed, the release of red blood from the genital tract may be due to this pathology. Both of these conditions require immediate medical attention and hospitalization in a hospital (pathology department).

  If bleeding is observed during placenta previa, attempts are made to maintain the pregnancy. In case of heavy bleeding, only cesarean section is possible, regardless of gestational age.

  After childbirth, a woman experiences bleeding, which gradually becomes mucous in nature. By the time of discharge from the hospital, the discharge is moderate, mucous-brown, without an unpleasant odor (there may be an iron smell).

  If at home, instead of gradually lightening and reducing the amount of lochia, brown or bright red discharge is observed, then you should immediately consult a doctor. The unpleasant, pungent or putrid odor of lochia, which is often observed with postpartum endometritis, should also alert a woman.

  To stop bleeding, curettage of the uterine cavity is necessary to remove possible remnants of the placental membranes.

  3. Menopause

  During the period of gradual decline in ovarian function, menstruation may disappear and resume. But the appearance of spotting in the middle of the menstrual cycle should alert you.

  If a woman has previously been diagnosed with endometriosis or endometrial hyperplasia, then they may be the cause of vaginal discharge. , there have been no menstruation for more than a year, then if blood with mucus or watery brown discharge appears, you should consult a doctor. This may be a symptom of cancer that requires immediate diagnosis.

  It may be a direct consequence: dryness of the vaginal mucosa with simultaneous atrophy leads to the appearance of small cracks and microtraumas during sex.

  4. Diagnostics

  The causes of brown vaginal discharge can be very diverse. It is important to remember that their appearance during a period of time not associated with menstruation requires consultation with a doctor. In addition to questioning and examination in a gynecological chair, the following can be performed:

  1. 2 PAP test.
  2. 3 Colposcopy and hysteroscopy.
  3. 4 Separate curettage and histological examination of the material.
  4. 5 Ultrasound of the pelvic organs.
  5. 6 According to indications: hysterography and MRI, blood test for tumor markers, general blood test, studies of sex hormone levels.

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.

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 varying intensity and character. 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 state 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 an unpleasant odor in dark brownish leucorrhoea;
• 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.

A healthy woman has a menstrual cycle without interruptions. If unexpected violations occur, this should be the basis for contacting an antenatal clinic. One of the pathological conditions is black discharge during or between menstruation. There can be many reasons for this, which are sometimes difficult for a woman to figure out on her own.

Features of the menstrual cycle

Before you begin to figure out when black discharge is the norm, and in which case it is a deviation, you should remember what the menstrual cycle is.

Each female body is individual, and therefore everyone experiences their periods differently. But the general parameters apply to everyone:

• The normal cycle is 28 days. However, this indicator is typical for only 60% of women. For the rest, the duration ranges from 21 to 35 days.
• Menstruation has several phases: under the influence of estrogen, an egg is formed in the ovary (proliferative period), lasting from 1 to 17 days; the corpus luteum begins to function, due to which the hormone progesterone is formed (secretory phase), lasting around 13-15 days; In the interval, the bleeding phase begins, which is called menstruation.

From this we can conclude that menstruation is a cyclical process that occurs if the egg is not fertilized.

Normal menstruation has the following indicators:

1. Bloody discharge in women lasts for 2-7 days.
2. On the first day, a woman loses more blood than on subsequent days. From the beginning of menstruation to the last day, the amount of discharge decreases.
3. During the entire period of menstruation, blood loss averages 50 ml.
4. Spotting is considered normal if it has a red or scarlet tint, without the presence of a specific odor. At this time, there should be no itching or burning in the intimate area.
5. Blood during menstruation should not have impurities or foreign shades.

Note! Black or brown discharge is considered a deviation from the norm.

When is specific discharge normal?

If black or brown discharge appears shortly before the onset of your period, this is normal. Drops of blood just got into them, which is why they got this color. This can be observed several days after menstruation, when the body removes the remaining blood from the uterus.

At this time, even dark-colored clumps can be observed. This situation is also observed in completely healthy women. This is a sign of the onset of the menstrual cycle. During menstruation itself, the blood coming out of the vagina can have different shades.

There are several other factors in which dark daub should not cause concern:

1. It is normal to have black or brown discharge in women taking hormonal birth control. In this case, spotting can appear at any time during the cycle.
2. If a girl has had sexual intercourse for the first time, dark discharge may persist for several more days.
3. They can also appear after active sex, without a sufficient amount of lubrication, which can result in injury to the vaginal mucosa.
4. In girls, before the menstrual cycle normalizes, until about 16 years of age, black and brown discharge is normal.
5. In women with the onset of menopause, hormonal disruption occurs. This leads to the fact that the cycle becomes irregular; periods may not come for several months. But when the discharge comes, it can be quite scanty and dark in color.

Even if a woman has one of these factors, consulting a gynecologist will not hurt.

Dark discharge is a harbinger of a serious illness

Only a doctor can make an accurate diagnosis and understand the cause of black vaginal discharge. After all, they can signal not about natural processes in the body, but about serious diseases. There may be several reasons why there is dark discharge.

Complication of pregnancy

When the egg is fertilized and implanted on the wall of the uterus, some fragments of the mucous membrane are rejected, which can cause scanty black or dark brown discharge. A woman may feel slight pain in the lower abdomen. This symptom does not pose a threat to the life or health of the fetus or mother. This only means that menstruation should have come, but fertilization occurred. You should start to worry if the daub has a bright shade and at the same time it is quite abundant. This is the first sign of pathology. You should immediately contact a antenatal clinic.

Important! Black discharge with clots during pregnancy may be a sign of a threatened miscarriage.

At first, the woman does not feel pain, but gradually both bleeding and pain increase, and attacks similar to contractions appear. If you consult a doctor at the first sign of a miscarriage, the fetus can be saved.

Black discharge also appears when an ectopic pregnancy occurs, when the egg does not enter the uterus, but attaches to the ovary or abdominal cavity. In this case, the woman experiences severe pain in the groin. They can also radiate to the lower back and rectum.

If you do not seek medical help in time, pipes may burst. Not only the pain will increase, but also the amount of blood.

Cervical erosion

Black or brown discharge is also possible with cervical erosion - a defect in the mucous membrane of the cervix. During a routine examination by a gynecologist or during sexual intercourse, tissue injury may occur, resulting in dark-colored blood.

Another reason is infection with ongoing inflammation. In such a situation, the secretion of dark swelling appears shortly before menstruation and has a specific smell.

Healthy cervix and susceptible to erosion - click to view

Erosion is treated with a laser. After the procedure, black discharge may appear, which will gradually lighten.

During pregnancy, when the uterus enlarges, the eroded mucosa is injured, which also causes scanty bloody smear. The disease cannot be treated during this period, but the woman should be under constant supervision.

Endometrial hyperplasia

The uterine cavity contains a layer of endometrium. Its thickening is called hyperplasia. The first sign of the disease is menstrual irregularity. Partitions appear in the uterus, which prevent blood from getting out; it coagulates, turning into clots. The discharge at this time is black or dark brown, scanty, and in rare cases abundant.

Treatment of hyperplasia consists of curettage of the uterine cavity followed by the administration of hormonal drugs.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is another disease in which the endometrium grows as a result of hormonal imbalance. The bloody smear is quite strong and dark in color. They can also appear in the interval between menstruation for 2-3 days. A few days before and during menstruation itself, a woman experiences severe pain.

Oncology

Cervical cancer is one of the most common diseases in women. At the onset of the disease, the main symptom is dark-colored spotting between periods, the appearance of blood after sex, and a disruption in the cycle. Little blood is released. It has a black color, sometimes with a greenish tint, and most often a specific odor.

As you can see, black or dark brown discharge is a sign of quite serious diseases. If there are disruptions in the cycle or pain, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Additional factors that provoke discharge

In addition to the listed factors, there may be additional reasons that cause dark-colored daubs:

• stress;
• disruption of the usual rhythm of life;
• imbalance in food;
• climate change;
• some time after childbirth;
• disruptions in metabolic processes;
• inflammation of the ovaries or uterus;
• infectious diseases;
• installation of the spiral.

Important! If the cause of the spotting is inflammation, then an increase in temperature and pain are observed.

You should consult a doctor immediately if bleeding is accompanied by:

• burning in the intimate area;
• unpleasant odor;
• bloody clots;
• changes in the amount of blood released during menstruation;
• discharge between periods;
• dizziness, poor health, brittle nails and hair.

These signs indicate possible infection or inflammation. The concern of the fair sex about dark vaginal discharge between menstruation is understandable. Thus, the body can signal about serious pathological processes occurring in the body. Delaying a visit to the doctor can lead to serious complications.

Every self-respecting lady tries to take care of her reproductive organs. She constantly monitors their cleanliness and closely monitors vaginal discharge.

Vaginal secretions are considered normal, whitish in color, without a distinct odor, and of medium thickness.

Depending on the monthly rhythm, nutrition, health and emotional state, the secretion changes its characteristics. When a woman experiences dark vaginal discharge, she experiences fear and persistent anxiety. Is it really that sad? Simple facts will help you figure this out.

Natural, harmless secret

Many people are familiar with the principle: if you have knowledge, you are armed. To avoid unnecessary stress due to changes in vaginal fluid secretion, it is important to know when it is considered harmless.

Evidence shows that dark-colored secretions are considered normal in the following situations:

• the beginning or end of critical days;
• consequences of taking hormonal medications;
• active intimate intercourse;
• use of contraceptives;
• violation of the principles of genital care.

As a result of disturbances in the level of hormones, discharge, on the eve of menstruation, turns dark brown. In this case, a delay is possible and dark mucus appears instead of blood fluid. Usually the volume of such secretions is very meager, so they soon end.

At the end of the critical days, the appearance of brown vaginal secretion indicates complete cleansing of the uterus from blood elements.

As you know, all medications have side effects. Hormonal medications or birth control pills can affect the monthly rhythm. As a result of the failure, women experience dark vaginal mucus.

Important for married ladies to know.

When choosing a method of contraception, it is advisable to consult a specialist. If hormonal substances are preferred, it is important to know how they affect vaginal secretions.

For three months, hormonal contraceptives affect the woman's reproductive organs. Therefore, the nature of the discharge changes. They come in a dark shade or with elements of blood. Over time, the body gets used to it and the secretion disappears. To avoid unexpected hormonal disruptions, you should not stop taking medications without serious reasons. If brown mucus does not stop for 6 months, it is advisable to consult a personal gynecologist. Perhaps he will suggest another hormonal remedy for family planning.

Brown vaginal discharge often occurs in girls who have just been born. In this case, the baby’s body was affected by an excess of maternal hormones.

Active intimate intercourse often causes microcracks in the vagina. This is especially true for the first copulation in life. An indicator of mechanical damage is bleeding. Although vaginal injuries are not dangerous, it is advisable to show more tender feelings, respecting the health of your partner.

Sometimes a woman takes medications that contain estrogen. At the beginning of the course of treatment, the nature of the vaginal discharge changes, which becomes darker in color. Over time, they regain their former character. And at the end - brown mucus again. In view of such circumstances, you should carefully study the side effects of the medications you take.

On a note.

Unpleasant brown discharge is found when using an intrauterine device. When choosing a contraceptive, it is advisable to consult a doctor. Complete information from a specialist will help you make a wise choice.

Despite the fact that most ladies take care of themselves, it is important to do this constantly. If for some reason the hygiene rules are violated, a dark-colored secretion appears. In addition, it emits an unpleasant odor. You can eliminate it using water and detergents.

Signal bells of serious ailments

When a woman discovers dark-colored discharge, these may be warning signs of unpleasant diseases. They are usually accompanied by the following factors:

• are detected at any time of the monthly cycle;
• there are sharp sensations of pain in the lower abdomen;
• discomfort in the intimate area (burning, itching);
• appear after every intimacy;
• the process of copulation is painful;
• fever and weakness rise.

By paying attention to these factors, a woman is able to determine the presence of the disease. To establish the causes of the malaise, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist. If time is lost, invisible killers of the female body will “settle” in the body. These include:

• endometritis;
• oncological tumors;
• benign growths in the ovaries or appendages;
• endometrial polyps.

Often it is dark brown discharge that appears in women prone to such pathologies. A serious approach to treatment can help, and in extreme cases, surgery.

For many, the question of why brown discharge occurs does not cause concern. But despite this, the reasons are quite serious. Hormonal imbalances, inflammation of the uterus or its cervix, ovaries or appendages - all these are the most important reproductive organs. And they deserve to be taken seriously.

Depending on the course of the menstrual cycle, dark-colored vaginal secretions may indicate physiological diseases.

If they appear after the end of the critical days and continue in the form of smears, then there are serious reasons. Prolonged vaginal mucus in a meager volume is a sign of hormonal imbalance, which results in endometritis or polyps in the uterine body. In addition, mechanical damage to the cervix or vaginal membrane manifests itself in dark brown discharge. This is especially true for those women whose cervix is ​​damaged by erosion.

The sudden appearance of dark vaginal fluid in the middle of the menstrual rhythm is a dangerous signal.

Important to consider.

If a woman takes medications that contain hormones, a brown vaginal mucous secretion is considered normal.

The following symptoms are especially worth noting:

1. Bloody discharge from the uterus. They are caused by the presence of cancer, damage to the uterine cervix by erosion or endometriosis. If a secretion is discovered after every sexual intercourse, you should seek help.
2. Blood between periods. The phenomenon is unpleasant, but appears as a result of stress or disruption of the body’s metabolic processes with the environment. For insurance purposes, it is advisable to undergo an examination by a doctor. It is better to prevent than to get rid of the disease for a long time.
3. The appearance of brownish discharge often indicates an infectious infection. If they are accompanied by itching or burning in intimate places. And during sexual intercourse they cause pain or discomfort.

As you can see, vaginal secretion that occurs in the middle of the cycle indicates serious female ailments.

Pregnancy and brown mucus

The appearance of dark discharge from the vagina of a pregnant woman is considered a serious warning. Often they indicate pathological disorders in the development of the child. At an early stage of an interesting situation, a miscarriage may occur. In late pregnancy - premature birth. The mother's quick reaction will save the baby's life.

Brown vaginal mucus during the first 3 weeks of pregnancy is considered harmless. They usually appear in small quantities and gradually disappear.

Dark vaginal fluids, which indicate an ectopic pregnancy, serve as dangerous signals for a woman’s life. Only surgical intervention can help the lady get out of this situation. A quick reaction will save the lady's life.

Dark vaginal secretions often indicate inflammatory processes in the internal organs. Despite pregnancy, this happens. Therefore, you should choose a treatment that will not harm the developing fetus. An experienced doctor knows which drugs are best to use. He is waiting for his patients.

In the first months of pregnancy, the color of the mucus may change due to low progesterone levels. Because of this, the uterus is toned, which causes pain below the navel. As a result, bleeding occurs, which often ends in the loss of the baby.

At the 22nd week of an interesting position, the discovery of a dark secretion indicates placental abruption. If you do not contact a specialist in time, the child may die as a result of a miscarriage. Practice shows that it is possible to save the fetus at this stage, the main thing is not to waste time.

The situations considered show that a woman should carefully monitor changes in the color of vaginal secretions. Even if the symptoms are not dangerous, it is better to be on the safe side by visiting a doctor. Taking care of your health is an important part of every woman’s life.

Should a healthy woman have brown or bloody vaginal discharge? Is this normal, a sign of a disease or other disorder in the body?

Prices for services

Initial appointment with a gynecologist + ultrasound (assessment of complaints, medical history, examination in a gynecological chair, pelvic ultrasound, consultation)

Primary appointment – ​​visiting a doctor of a specific specialty for the first time.

About normal discharge

Normally, a woman's vagina should release fluid. But not all discharge is normal. “Good” discharge includes clear, not abundant (from 50 mg per day), odorless mucus. Normal discharge does not cause discomfort, it does not cause itching, burning or irritation of the vagina. If you take a smear for microflora, it should reveal a normal number of leukocytes with a predominance of lactobacilli. Mucus discharge gradually increases in quantity until the day of ovulation (approximately 14 days after menstruation). During this period, the mucus changes its properties. The feeling of moisture in the external genital area at this time is absolutely normal.

But you need to be very careful about brown discharge! A brown, brownish tint to the liquid clearly indicates bloody or bloody additions to the mucus. And this, in turn, may indicate disorders of the female genital area. Further on such violations and their causes.

Endometritis

Brown discharge may be a sign of chronic endometritis - inflammation of the endometrium, the mucous membrane of the uterine cavity. Brown discharge with endometritis appears before and after menstruation and often has an unpleasant odor. Sometimes brown mucus appears in the middle of the cycle and is combined with aching pain in the lower abdomen. Chronic endometritis is dangerous during pregnancy; it can lead to miscarriages at different stages. This pathology is due to the fact that the process of attachment of the fertilized egg in the uterine cavity and its further development are disrupted.

Chronic endometritis can result from:

acute postpartum or post-abortion endometritis that has not been completely cured;

intrauterine interventions;

imbalance between the body's hormonal and immune systems;

hidden infections.

Endometriosis

Brown or bloody discharge are also the main symptoms of endometriosis of the cervix or uterine body. This does not necessarily cause pain. Endometriosis of the cervix is ​​nodular, small cystic formations or growths in the form of red or purplish-blue stripes. Dark bloody and brown discharge may appear from individual lesions. Endometriosis of the uterine body is the growth of endometrial cells in the myometrium (muscular layer of the uterus). Pathological discharge decreases in size after menstruation, and its color becomes lighter.

Endometrial hyperplasia

Spotting, bloody, brown discharge at the end of the cycle before menstruation or for a long time after menstruation may indicate endometrial hyperplasia. The causes of hyperplasia can be of different nature. Most often, this pathology develops due to hormonal imbalances, as well as carbohydrate, lipid and other types of metabolism. An important role may be played by hereditary predisposition, the presence of uterine fibroids, cancer of the genital organs and breast, hypertension and other diseases, manifestations of damaging effects during the prenatal period of development, diseases during puberty and the disorders of menstrual and subsequently reproductive function caused by them. The appearance of hyperplasia in adulthood is often preceded by previous gynecological diseases, abortions, and genital surgeries.

Polyp

Brown discharge may be a sign of a polyp in the uterus. The cause of a polyp may be a pathology of the uterine mucosa or cervical canal against the background of a chronic inflammatory process. The cause of uterine polyps is most often hormonal disorders.

Detachment of the ovum

Brown discharge during pregnancy - spotting, bloody - is the first sign of abruption of the ovum or placenta, which happened several days or even a week ago. Often such discharge is accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen and lumbar region, reminiscent of “mild” contractions.

Ectopic pregnancy

Sometimes brown discharge with ichor indicates an ectopic pregnancy. At the same time, a woman may feel a decrease in blood pressure, periodic or constant pain in the lower abdomen, increased heart rate, and dizziness.

Hormonal contraceptives

Cinnamon discharge may appear in the first months of taking hormonal contraceptives. In this case, this is the norm. But if this phenomenon continues for the 3rd month or longer, it means that the drug is not suitable and the selection of a new method of contraception is required.

Don't expect trouble

If any discharge that bothers you appears other than those described above, this is a reason to immediately consult a doctor. The specialist will determine the cause of the discharge, prescribe the necessary treatment and save you from further development of the disease.

Vaginal discharge is normal for any woman, usually it is not profuse, whitish in color and does not have a strong, pronounced odor; these characteristics may vary slightly depending on the day of the menstrual cycle, food, immune status and under the influence of various medications. Brown discharge in women can be really scary at times, what can they talk about when it is the norm?

Normally, female discharge contains transudate, the secretion of glands located on the mucous membranes of the reproductive system, and particles of the epithelium that lines the vagina. The whitish color and sour, but not unpleasant, odor are due to the activity of the vaginal microflora, namely lactic acid bacteria. Due to disturbances in the microflora and various diseases, the color and smell of the discharge may change; changes can be used to roughly judge the infection or disease.

Mucous brown discharge can be a sign of a serious illness, but depending on the phase of the cycle and the use of various medications, especially hormonal ones, they can be considered normal. This nature of the secretion should definitely alert you against the background of the following signs:

• the appearance of brown discharge or secretion mixed with blood between menstruation, while the woman is not taking hormonal medications;
• there is pain in the lower abdomen or in the lumbar region, in the area of ​​the external genitalia and vagina there is dryness and burning, pain that intensifies during urination and sexual intercourse, there are rashes on the mucous membrane;
• discharge occurs during menopause, while the last menstruation was quite a long time ago, a year or more has passed since it, their occurrence during menopause may indicate the development of a serious pathology;
• bloody and brownish discharge occurs after sexual intercourse.

In general, the brownish color of the discharge usually indicates the presence of blood in it, therefore, at certain phases of the menstrual cycle, its appearance can be called normal. However, if there are other symptoms of various gynecological diseases, you should consult a doctor.

Important! If the appearance of brownish discharge occurs with an increase in general body temperature, you should urgently consult a doctor, this may indicate the presence of an inflammatory process.

Why does a woman have brown discharge?

There are many reasons for brown discharge; first of all, it is worth considering in which case the presence of brown discharge is considered normal:

1. The appearance of such impurities in the secret before the onset of menstruation - a day or several hours. In this case, this is a natural state with the gradual onset of menstruation.
2. The appearance of such a secretion immediately after menstruation is a gradual end of menstruation.
3. Dark brown discharge between periods while taking hormonal medications. In this case, they are a side effect of taking medications, but it is advisable to consult a doctor; it may be better to choose another remedy.
4. Red-brown secretion after active sex. In this case, they arise due to minor microtraumas of the mucous membrane; this phenomenon is also common after the first contact in life or over a long period of time. Next time you just need to be more careful; microtraumas are not dangerous, but their occurrence is undesirable in any case.

Brown discharge instead of periods may also be normal for women taking hormonal contraceptives. Due to some medications, some women experience a complete loss of menstruation and spotting may be present instead.

In some cases, it is extremely important to understand whether brownish discharge appears along with urine when urinating. Brown discharge and frequent urination indicate the occurrence of urethritis or cystitis - inflammatory diseases of the urethra and bladder. In this case, when urinating, a burning sensation occurs, and there is pain in the lower abdomen or lumbar region.

With these diseases, the temperature may rise, usually symptoms develop with a cold or against the background of hypothermia. If such symptoms occur, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible. Brown discharge with cystitis usually comes from the urethra along with urine, so you can notice it after urinating on toilet paper or underwear.

Brown discharge mid-cycle

A brownish secretion between menstruation is a rather alarming symptom if a woman is not taking any hormonal medications. The most common causes of this symptomatology are the following conditions:

1. Uterine bleeding. It is usually caused by extremely serious diseases: endometritis, cervical erosion, various neoplasms, including malignant ones. You should be especially wary if discharge occurs every time after sexual intercourse, even quite mild ones.
2. Intermenstrual bleeding. These bleedings are usually caused by less serious factors, most often various injuries to the genital organs, stress, metabolic disorders, and exposure to certain medications.

Important! If brown and bloody inclusions occur in the secretion, it is necessary to do an ultrasound of the pelvic organs and a smear.

Yellowish-brown discharge with an unpleasant odor may indicate an infection, usually sexually transmitted. In this case, there is usually itching and burning in the genital area, pain and discomfort during sexual intercourse.

During pregnancy, the appearance of a brownish secretion is an extremely alarming symptom, as it may indicate a possible miscarriage. If blood occurs during pregnancy, especially in later stages of pregnancy, you should immediately consult your doctor. If you do not intervene in time, the pregnancy may be terminated.

In older women, bloody and brownish secretions are an extremely alarming sign, especially if enough time has passed since the onset of menopause. This may indicate the development of oncology, so you should immediately contact a gynecologist.

Treatment of diseases that cause such symptoms depends on accurately identifying the cause. Various remedies can be used, from topical ointments and suppositories to surgical intervention. If brown discharge occurs due to hormonal medications, it is recommended to try changing the product.

In general, you should not delay if this symptom occurs. Self-medication is extremely undesirable; it can lead to a worsening of the condition, regardless of the disease.