Irregular Menstrual Cycles and Abnormal Discharge in Women

Secretions issues?

I have irregular menstrual cycles (I often experience periods that come every two months or sometimes miss a month).
I had a slight infection before, and the doctor mentioned that I have higher levels of male hormones.
An ultrasound showed normal results.
I am a student and have no sexual experience.
From January 26 to 29, I visited a gynecologist and took medication to induce my period.
Then, from February 2 to 8, I had a small amount of brown discharge followed by red discharge (with some blood).
The doctor said that since the bleeding was minimal, it could be considered a period.
I was advised to return if I didn't have my period by April 2.
From March 15 to 21, I experienced similar brown and red discharge (also with some blood), which was minimal.
I thought that counted as a period for March.
However, on April 10, I again had brown and red discharge (also with some blood).
I would like to ask the doctor if this is still considered normal, given that it consists of brown and red discharge.
Thank you, doctor.

Zǎi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/11

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the factors that can affect the menstrual cycle or cause intermenstrual bleeding are numerous, including environment, lifestyle, stress, emotional instability, diet, age, and lesions in the uterus or cervix, among others.
Since your bleeding has persisted for several days, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist to determine whether it is due to hormonal imbalance or other causes.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Chang.

Reply Date: 2016/04/11

More Info

Irregular menstrual cycles and abnormal discharge can be concerning for many women, especially when they experience symptoms that deviate from their normal patterns. Based on your description, it seems that you have been experiencing irregularities in your menstrual cycle, including infrequent periods and unusual discharge, which can be attributed to several factors.

Firstly, it's important to understand that irregular menstrual cycles can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal imbalances, stress, changes in weight, and underlying medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In your case, you mentioned that a doctor indicated you have higher levels of male hormones (androgens), which is often associated with PCOS. This condition can lead to irregular periods, as well as symptoms such as excessive hair growth, acne, and weight gain.

The presence of brown or red discharge, especially if it is scant, can sometimes indicate old blood that is being expelled from the body, which may occur at the beginning or end of a menstrual period. However, if this discharge is occurring outside of your expected menstrual cycle, it could be a sign of anovulation (when the ovaries do not release an egg) or other hormonal fluctuations. The fact that you have experienced this discharge multiple times over the past few months suggests that your menstrual cycle is still not regular, and it may require further evaluation.

You also mentioned that you took medication to induce your period, which can sometimes lead to temporary changes in your cycle. The brown discharge you observed after taking the medication could be a result of hormonal adjustments in your body. It’s not uncommon for women to experience variations in their menstrual flow and discharge after taking hormonal medications, as the body may take time to adjust.

Given your situation, it would be advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider, especially if you continue to experience irregular cycles or abnormal discharge. They may recommend further testing, such as blood tests to check hormone levels or an ultrasound to assess the ovaries and uterus more closely. This can help rule out any underlying conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms.

In terms of management, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and managing stress can have a positive impact on menstrual regularity. If hormonal imbalances are confirmed, your doctor may discuss treatment options, which could include hormonal contraceptives to help regulate your cycle.

In summary, while some irregularities in menstrual cycles can be normal, especially during adolescence or early adulthood, persistent irregularities and abnormal discharge warrant further investigation. It’s essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and concerns, as they can provide tailored advice and treatment options based on your individual health needs.

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