Irregular Menstrual Cycles and Unusual Discharge

Menstruation lasts for 12 days, and there is a presence of brown, sticky discharge on the underwear?

Thank you, doctor, for taking the time to answer my question.
My menstrual cycle has always been regular, approximately 24-26 days.
However, this time, after my period ended, I engaged in masturbation for 12 consecutive days, about 3-4 times a day.
I'm unsure if this is too frequent.
On the 13th day, after masturbating, I noticed a thick, light red discharge on my hand.
The next day, when I woke up, it had turned brown and was sticky, appearing in small clumps, and this has continued for 2 days.
I'm very anxious about whether this could be due to injury from frequent masturbation.
Additionally, since the second night, I've started experiencing menstrual cramps.
Could you please advise if this is a normal occurrence, especially since it was just an occasional situation?

SL, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/25

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Menstruation has always been normal, with a cycle of about 24-26 days.
This time, after 12 days of menstruation, on the 13th day, after masturbation, I noticed a thick, light red discharge on my hand.
The next day, upon waking up, it had turned brown and was sticky in small clumps, continuing for 2 days.
Additionally, on the second night, I started to feel menstrual cramps.
Is this a normal occurrence, perhaps just once?
PS: During these 12 days, I have been masturbating intermittently, about 3-4 times a day.
I'm worried that it might be too frequent and if it could have caused any injury.
Answer:
1.
Masturbation is very common and generally not a problem.
Masturbating 3-4 times a day over these 12 days is not considered excessive.
2.
The thick, light red discharge after masturbation, which turned brown the next day and was sticky in small clumps for 2 days, along with the onset of menstrual cramps, may indicate a superficial injury or bacterial infection caused by masturbation.
Treatment can include medication, topical ointments, and sitz baths, but it is important to choose the appropriate antibiotic.

Reply Date: 2017/08/25

More Info

Understanding irregular menstrual cycles and unusual discharge can be concerning, especially when there are changes in your typical patterns. Based on your description, it seems that you have experienced a deviation from your usual menstrual cycle, which has raised some questions about the potential causes and implications.

Firstly, it's important to recognize that menstrual cycles can be influenced by a variety of factors, including hormonal fluctuations, stress, changes in physical activity, and even sexual activity. In your case, you mentioned that your cycle has been regular, typically lasting 24-26 days, but after a period of 12 days, you began to notice unusual discharge. The presence of thick, light red discharge followed by brown, sticky discharge can be indicative of several things.

The initial light red discharge you observed could be related to ovulation or could be a sign of implantation bleeding if you are sexually active and there is a possibility of pregnancy. However, since you mentioned that you have been engaging in masturbation frequently, it is also possible that the discharge is related to irritation or minor trauma to the vaginal or cervical tissues, especially if there was vigorous activity involved.

The subsequent brown discharge you experienced is often old blood that is being expelled from the body. This can occur at the end of a menstrual period or as a result of hormonal changes. It is not uncommon for women to experience brown discharge at various times in their cycle, and it is usually not a cause for concern unless accompanied by other symptoms.

Regarding the abdominal pain you mentioned, it could be related to menstrual cramps, which are common and can occur at various times in the cycle, not just during menstruation. If the pain is severe or persistent, it may warrant further investigation to rule out conditions such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease.

It's also worth noting that frequent masturbation, while generally safe, can lead to temporary irritation or discomfort if done excessively or without adequate lubrication. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, it may be beneficial to give your body some time to recover and to engage in gentler forms of sexual activity.

In summary, while the changes you are experiencing could be related to normal physiological variations, they could also indicate a need for further evaluation, especially if the symptoms persist or worsen. If you are concerned about your symptoms or if they significantly impact your daily life, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly tests, to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and provide appropriate treatment options.

In the meantime, consider tracking your menstrual cycle and any associated symptoms to provide your healthcare provider with detailed information during your visit. This can help in diagnosing any potential issues more accurately. Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.

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