Brown Discharge: When to Seek Gynecological Care - Obstetrics and Gynecology

Share to:

The discharge is dark brown?


Hello Doctor, recently I have been experiencing dark brown discharge (which has been occurring for about a week), and the amount is considerable.
My menstruation is currently 3 days late, and I have had sexual intercourse.
I was previously diagnosed with adenomyosis by a gynecologist.
Lately, I have also been waking up at night to urinate 3 to 4 times.
Could this indicate a urinary tract infection or an issue with my uterus? Should I see a gynecologist for an examination?

Zhen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/06

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Recently, I have been experiencing dark brown discharge, and my period is currently 3 days late.
I have had sexual intercourse, and I was previously diagnosed with adenomyosis by a gynecologist.
Lately, I have also been waking up at night to urinate 3 to 4 times.
Could this indicate a urinary tract infection, or is there an issue with my uterus? Should I see a gynecologist for an examination?
Answer: Frequent urination 3 to 4 times at night may suggest a urinary tract infection.
The persistent dark brown discharge and the 3-day delay in menstruation indicate that a visit to a gynecologist for further evaluation is necessary.

Reply Date: 2017/02/06

More Info


When it comes to brown discharge, especially when accompanied by other symptoms such as delayed menstruation, frequent urination, and a history of uterine adenomyosis, it is essential to understand the potential implications and when to seek gynecological care.

Brown discharge typically indicates old blood that is taking longer to exit the body. This can occur at various times in the menstrual cycle, including before or after menstruation. In some cases, it may be related to hormonal fluctuations or the shedding of the uterine lining. However, given your history of adenomyosis, it is crucial to consider that this condition can lead to abnormal bleeding patterns and may contribute to the brown discharge you are experiencing.

The fact that your period is delayed by three days adds another layer of complexity. While a slight delay can be normal, especially if you have been under stress or have experienced changes in your routine, it is important to rule out pregnancy or other underlying issues. Since you mentioned having had sexual intercourse, a pregnancy test may be warranted if your period does not start soon.

Frequent urination at night (nocturia) could indicate a urinary tract infection (UTI) or other urinary issues. UTIs can cause irritation and inflammation of the urinary tract, leading to increased urgency and frequency of urination. It is also possible that the frequent urination could be related to your adenomyosis, as this condition can sometimes cause pressure on the bladder, leading to similar symptoms.

Given these factors, it is advisable to seek gynecological care. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, including a pelvic exam and possibly an ultrasound, to assess the condition of your uterus and any potential complications related to adenomyosis. They may also recommend a urinalysis to check for signs of infection or other urinary issues.

In summary, while brown discharge can be a normal occurrence, your specific symptoms—delayed menstruation, a history of adenomyosis, and frequent urination—warrant a professional evaluation. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to reproductive health. Seeking care from a gynecologist will help you understand the underlying causes of your symptoms and determine the appropriate course of action, whether that involves treatment for adenomyosis, addressing a potential UTI, or further investigation into your menstrual irregularities.
In the United States, finding a qualified gynecologist can be done through various means, including referrals from primary care physicians, searching online directories, or checking with local hospitals or clinics. It’s essential to choose a provider with whom you feel comfortable discussing your symptoms and concerns.

Similar Q&A

Brown Discharge: When to See a Doctor for Gynecological Concerns

Recently, my vaginal discharge has been brown. I initially thought my period was about to start, but today is the third day and it still hasn't come. Should I see a doctor about this?


Dr. Tian Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Brown discharge is often due to a small amount of bleeding, which can occur when hormonal levels in the body are unstable for various reasons. This can lead to slight shedding of the endometrium before menstruation, which is a physiological phenomenon that occasionally happens. I...

[Read More] Brown Discharge: When to See a Doctor for Gynecological Concerns


Understanding Brown Discharge: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello doctor, I had my menstrual period from May 29 to June 4, and around June 12, I noticed brown discharge. The amount is not significant and has been ongoing for over a week. There is no abdominal pain, and I have not had any sexual intercourse. Should I continue to monitor th...


Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
"Abnormal vaginal discharge" varies based on symptoms and requires various tests for accurate diagnosis. If there are no other symptoms (such as itching, odor, etc.), it is advisable to observe for one to two weeks. If other symptoms are present, please visit a clinic f...

[Read More] Understanding Brown Discharge: When to Seek Medical Advice


Understanding Brown Discharge: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello Doctor: I moved to another country about a week ago, and for the first three days after my arrival, I experienced an increase in discharge, which was a thick, milky white. In the following days, it changed to a small amount of brown discharge. I have not experienced any abd...


Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. It may be a vaginal candidiasis infection. 2. It is recommended to keep the vagina well-ventilated and dry. 3. If there is accompanying abdominal pain, unusual odor, increased bleeding, or fever, it is advised to seek medical treatment. Sincerely, Dr. Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan Hosp...

[Read More] Understanding Brown Discharge: Causes and When to Seek Help


Understanding Brown Discharge: Causes and When to Seek Help

Since my menstrual period ended last month, I have been experiencing intermittent brownish discharge for a total of one month. A few days ago, I visited a gynecologist who performed an ultrasound and found that I have a 5 cm uterine cyst. The doctor prescribed me medication to in...


Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Based on your description, the cystic mass may be caused by irregular menstruation, and treatment with menstrual regulation medications can be considered. Of course, it is also important to consider the possibilities of cervical cancer, pregnancy, and polyps, although these are l...

[Read More] Understanding Brown Discharge: Causes and When to Seek Help


Related FAQ

Vaginal Discharge

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Folliculitis

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Trichomoniasis

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Defecation

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Candidiasis

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Std Infection

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Bleeding

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Dyspareunia

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Menstrual Abnormalities

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Luteal Cyst

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)