Abnormal Discharge: Causes and When to Seek Help

Discharge irregularity

Hello Doctor, my last menstrual period was from April 23 to 28, and the system predicted my next period to be from June 4 to 8 (my menstrual cycle is somewhat irregular).
However, during this period, I did not get my period; instead, I experienced a discharge that was chocolate-colored, had a metallic smell, and was thick in consistency.
My vulva was also itchy, but I managed to refrain from scratching.
Now, the itching has subsided, but the discharge has not improved and sometimes contains blood.
When there is blood, the discharge becomes watery.
I have researched online, and it seems very similar to vaginitis.
If it is indeed vaginitis and I do not see a doctor, what could happen?

Qi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/06/23

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

My last menstrual period was from April 23 to 28, and the system predicts my next period to be from June 4 to 8 (my menstrual cycle is irregular).
However, I haven't had my period during this time; instead, I've been experiencing chocolate-colored, thick discharge with a metallic smell, and my vulva has been itchy.
I managed to stop myself from scratching, and now the itching has subsided, but the discharge has not improved and sometimes contains blood.
When there is blood, the discharge becomes watery.
I researched online and found that it resembles vaginitis.
If it is indeed vaginitis and I don't see a doctor, what could happen? Ans: It is better to see a doctor for an examination.

Reply Date: 2017/06/23

More Info

Understanding abnormal vaginal discharge is crucial for maintaining reproductive health, and it’s important to recognize when to seek medical help. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing several concerning symptoms, including irregular menstrual cycles, chocolate-colored discharge with a metallic odor, and intermittent bleeding. These symptoms can be indicative of various conditions, including infections, hormonal imbalances, or other gynecological issues.

Firstly, the irregularity of your menstrual cycle can be attributed to several factors, including stress, hormonal changes, weight fluctuations, or underlying medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders. It’s essential to monitor your menstrual patterns, as significant changes can signal an underlying issue that may require medical evaluation.

The chocolate-colored discharge you mentioned could be old blood, which might occur at the beginning or end of a menstrual period. However, if this discharge is accompanied by a foul odor and itching, it raises the suspicion of a possible infection, such as bacterial vaginosis or a yeast infection. The presence of blood in the discharge, especially if it changes consistency to a watery form, is also concerning and warrants further investigation.

Vaginal infections, if left untreated, can lead to more severe complications. For instance, bacterial vaginosis can increase the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can affect fertility. Similarly, untreated yeast infections can lead to recurrent episodes and may also cause discomfort and complications.

It’s important to note that self-diagnosing based on internet research can be misleading. While some symptoms may align with common conditions like vaginitis, only a healthcare professional can provide an accurate diagnosis through a physical examination and possibly laboratory tests. If you suspect you have an infection, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a pelvic exam, take samples for laboratory analysis, and prescribe appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics or antifungal medications.

In summary, while some changes in vaginal discharge can be normal, the combination of irregular menstrual cycles, unusual discharge characteristics, and associated symptoms like itching and bleeding should not be ignored. It is always better to err on the side of caution and consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent potential complications and ensure your reproductive health is maintained. If you experience worsening symptoms, such as severe pain, fever, or persistent bleeding, seek immediate medical attention. Your health is paramount, and addressing these concerns promptly can lead to better outcomes.

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