Menstruation is the discharge of blood and tissue from the uterus, which is released out of your body from the vagina. Menstrual blood is often characterised by a red colour, which can sometimes be brown at the beginning or end of the period. However, sometimes you can have brown discharge even when you are not on your period. Don't be alarmed, but consider all the possible causes that can cause it.
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Sujata Datta, Senior Consultant Gynaecologist, Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgeon, MRCOG,FRCOG,CCT (UK), Fortis Hospital, Anandapur, not only discusses the common causes of brown discharge unrelated to menstruation but also advises on when to seek medical attention.
Also Read: Vaginal Discharge Guide: Here's How You Can Identify Abnormal Discharge And When to See a Doctor
Possible Causes Of Brown Discharge Without Period
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Brown discharge can be alarming, especially if your period isn’t due anytime soon. Dr Datta says, “While brown discharge could be related to the beginning or end of a period, it can also be caused by other hormonal changes and conditions affecting the uterus and ovaries. Some of the potential causes include:
Hormonal imbalances
As one of the primary causes, hormonal fluctuations, particularly those involving oestrogen and progesterone, can cause irregular bleeding, which might appear as brown discharge. According to Dr Datta, conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), thyroid issues, and perimenopause can affect hormone levels, leading to irregular bleeding. And therefore, diagnosing hormonal imbalances often involves pelvic exams, blood tests, ultrasounds, and potentially other tests based on symptoms.
Pelvic infections
In certain cases, infections, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which is often caused by Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) like chlamydia or gonorrhoea, can lead to inflammation of the reproductive organs, sometimes leading to brown discharge and other symptoms like pain or fever.
Early pregnancy bleeding
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Abnormal bleeding or brown discharge is also likely during the early stages of pregnancy. This is because some women experience implantation bleeding, which usually occurs when the fertilised egg attaches to the uterine lining. This is very common. In fact, about 1 in 4 pregnant people will experience implantation bleeding, according to Cleveland Clinic. However, brown discharge during pregnancy can also signal other issues, such as a threatened miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, and should be consulted with a healthcare provider.
Birth control
Dr Datta says, “Hormonal birth control (pills, patches, implants, and IUDs) can also cause brown discharge, especially when starting or switching methods.”
“Some medications, like blood thinners, antidepressants, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can also contribute to irregular bleeding, including brown discharge,” she adds.
Also Read: Planning To Take Birth Control Pills? Experts List Its Pros And Cons
Uterine pathology
As per the doctor, abnormal growths in the uterus, such as fibroids (benign tumours) or polyps, can cause irregular bleeding that may present as brown discharge. In very rare cases, brown discharge could also be a sign of more serious conditions like uterine cancer, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like persistent pelvic pain or abnormal periods.
When To Seek Medical Assistance?
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While occasional brown discharge might not be a cause for concern, there are instances when it's crucial to seek medical attention.
Dr Datta says, “One should consult a healthcare provider when the brown discharge is accompanied by pain, cramping, or pelvic pain, fever, foul-smelling discharge, vaginal itching or burning, painful urination, or when it occurs at an unexpected time, such as mid-cycle bleeding, after sex, or if it continues beyond the usual duration of a period.”