Irregular Menstrual Bleeding: Causes and Concerns

Abnormal menstrual bleeding?

Hello doctor, I have a habit of keeping a long-term record of my menstrual cycle using an app, and the timing is usually accurate except for a few days when my schedule is irregular.
My menstrual period lasts about 6 to 7 days, with an average cycle of 33 days.
My last menstruation was from January 15 to January 20, and the app indicates that my next period is expected on February 17.
However, a few days before February 17, I noticed some dark brown discharge (not very thick, just like regular blood) that was minimal, requiring less than three panty liners throughout the day, and then it disappeared.
On February 17, I wiped in the morning and saw blood, so I thought my period had started and used a tampon.
However, when I changed it, I found only a light to dark brown fluid (thicker than before) with no actual blood.
Over the next few days, I experienced minimal dark brown discharge again (much less than before, almost none).
This morning, I wiped and saw blood again, so I used a panty liner, but when it was time to change, there was no blood at all! Just now, I started noticing dark brown fluid again.
I only felt a dull sensation in my abdomen today.
Why is this happening repeatedly? I have never experienced this before, and I am very anxious because I read online that it could be a sign of pregnancy or something wrong with the uterus.
Could you please explain this to me? Thank you.
P.S.
I had sexual intercourse on February 10 and February 19.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/02/22

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The menstrual period lasts 6 to 7 days with an average cycle of 33 days.
The last menstrual period was from January 15 to January 20, and the app indicates the next one is due on February 17.
However, two to three days before February 17, I noticed some dark brown discharge (not very thick, just like regular blood), which was minimal—less than three panty liners were used throughout the day, and then it disappeared.
On February 17, I wiped in the morning and saw blood, so I used a tampon.
However, when it was time to change it, I found only a light, dark brown fluid (thicker than before) with no blood.
In the following days, I experienced only a small amount of dark brown discharge (much less than before, almost none).
This morning, I wiped again and saw blood, so I used a panty liner, but when it was time to change it, there was no blood at all! I just started noticing dark brown fluid again.
I felt a dull sensation in my abdomen today, but why is this happening repeatedly? I have never experienced this before, and I am very anxious because I read online that it could be a sign of pregnancy or a uterine issue.
Could you please explain this to me?
The last menstrual period was from January 15 to January 20.
On February 15, I noticed some dark brown discharge, and on February 22, I wiped and saw dark brown fluid again, along with a dull sensation in my abdomen.
This is not a sign of pregnancy or a uterine issue; it is simply a case of irregular menstrual flow this time.
It is advisable to monitor the situation.
P.S.
Sexual intercourse occurred on February 10 and February 19.

Reply Date: 2018/02/22

More Info

Irregular menstrual bleeding can be a source of concern for many women, especially when it deviates from their usual cycle. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing some unusual bleeding patterns, including spotting of dark brown blood and changes in the consistency of your discharge. Let's break down the potential causes and considerations regarding your situation.

Possible Causes of Irregular Bleeding
1. Hormonal Fluctuations: The menstrual cycle is regulated by a complex interplay of hormones. Stress, changes in weight, exercise, and sleep patterns can all influence hormone levels, leading to irregular bleeding. Since you mentioned that your schedule has been irregular, this could be a contributing factor.

2. Ovulation Spotting: Some women experience light spotting around the time of ovulation, which can occur about midway through the menstrual cycle. This spotting is usually light and short-lived, often described as brown or pinkish in color.

3. Implantation Bleeding: If you have engaged in sexual activity, there is a possibility of pregnancy. Implantation bleeding can occur when a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining, typically around the time your next period is due. This bleeding is usually light and may be brownish in color.

4. Uterine Fibroids or Polyps: These benign growths in the uterus can cause irregular bleeding. They may lead to heavier periods or spotting between periods.

5. Infections: Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or other infections can cause abnormal bleeding and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as pain or unusual discharge.

6. Endometriosis: This condition occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it, which can lead to irregular bleeding and pain.

7. Other Medical Conditions: Conditions such as thyroid disorders or clotting disorders can also affect menstrual regularity.

Recommendations for Management
1. Track Your Cycle: Continue to monitor your menstrual cycle using your app. Note any changes in flow, color, and consistency of your discharge, as well as any accompanying symptoms like pain or discomfort.

2. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Given the changes you are experiencing, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly imaging studies or blood tests, to determine the underlying cause of your irregular bleeding.

3. Avoid Self-Diagnosis: While it’s easy to turn to the internet for answers, it can often lead to unnecessary anxiety. A healthcare professional can provide accurate information and reassurance.

4. Consider Lifestyle Factors: If stress or lifestyle changes are contributing to your irregular cycle, consider implementing stress-reduction techniques such as yoga, meditation, or regular exercise.

5. Be Aware of Pregnancy Signs: If there is a possibility of pregnancy, consider taking a home pregnancy test if your period does not arrive as expected. Early detection is important for prenatal care.

Conclusion
Irregular menstrual bleeding can arise from various factors, and while it can be concerning, many causes are benign. However, it is essential to seek professional medical advice to rule out any serious conditions and to receive appropriate care. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, so don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Causes and Solutions

Hello Dr. Chen, I experience my menstrual period every month, but the intervals are less than ten days. My cycles have been irregular, and for the past two months, I have been experiencing continuous bleeding, although the flow is not heavy. What should I do? I am married with ...

Dr. Chen Fuhao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Ms. Yang: Hello, your question is a common issue in general gynecological outpatient clinics, with about one-quarter of women experiencing similar concerns. Modern women face pressures from heavy academic workloads, careers, and household responsibilities, leading to irregular me...

Understanding Irregular Menstrual Bleeding: Causes and Concerns

Hello doctor, my last menstrual period was on November 9th, but yesterday, November 24th, after returning from the gym, I noticed some bleeding. What could this be?

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Abnormal vaginal bleeding may have several potential causes, including irregular menstruation, inflammation, pregnancy, polyps, tumors, and others. Please seek medical evaluation. Sincerely, Dr. Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan Hospital.

Understanding Irregular Menstruation: Causes and Concerns for Women

I have irregular menstruation; after my normal period, I experience some additional bleeding that occurs frequently. I have undergone a Pap smear, but the doctors said everything is fine. I am unsure what the cause might be. Could it be menopause, or could there be an issue with ...

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: Please come for an examination to find out. An ultrasound, pelvic exam, and Pap smear will be performed, and blood tests will be conducted if necessary. Hsinchu City Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Understanding Irregular Menstruation: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

Hello Doctor: Since mid-July, I have been experiencing abnormal bleeding. I went to the hospital for an abdominal ultrasound and a pelvic exam, both of which showed no issues. The doctor diagnosed me with irregular menstruation and prescribed hemostatic medication. However, as I ...

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Since mid-July, I have been experiencing abnormal bleeding. I went to the hospital for an abdominal ultrasound and a pelvic examination, both of which showed no issues. The doctor diagnosed me with irregular menstruation and prescribed hemostatic medication. However, as I approac...