Irregular Menstruation and Brown Discharge in PCOS Patients

Q: Irregular Menstruation and Brown Discharge in PCOS Patients

Hello： Please seek medical attention, as this condition cannot be addressed without an ultrasound examination and a pelvic exam. <br>The Hualien Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare cares about your health.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / Atypical Uterine Bleeding

Hello doctor, I have polycystic ovary syndrome and my menstrual cycle is often irregular.
I didn't have my period for the past two months, so I consulted a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner.
This month, my period came from September 1 to September 5, with the first three days being bright red blood and the last two days being brown (I often wonder if the blood is really fully expelled since it turns brown).
On September 20, I suddenly noticed some spotting along with vaginal discharge, and starting September 22, I've had brown discharge for four days, which looks similar to endometrial discharge (I usually have this during my periods).
I'm a bit confused about whether this is ovulation bleeding, an early onset of next month's period, leftover blood from this month, or related to progesterone deficiency.
I often notice yellow discharge during non-menstrual periods, and I tend to stay up late and consume cold foods, which may disrupt my hormonal balance and lower my immunity.
I'm currently taking herbal medicine, but I'm still experiencing brown discharge.
Should I see a gynecologist?

Ms. Hsieh, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/09/25

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello: Please seek medical attention, as this condition cannot be addressed without an ultrasound examination and a pelvic exam.
The Hualien Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2023/09/25

More Info

Irregular menstruation and brown discharge can be common concerns for individuals with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a hormonal disorder that can lead to a variety of symptoms, including irregular menstrual cycles, excessive hair growth, acne, and weight gain. Understanding the nuances of your menstrual cycle and discharge can help you manage your symptoms more effectively.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that the brown discharge you are experiencing is often old blood that has taken longer to exit the body. This can happen at the end of a menstrual period when the flow is lighter, or it can occur between periods due to hormonal fluctuations. In your case, since you mentioned that your period was red for the first three days and then turned brown, this is likely just the tail end of your menstrual cycle. However, if you are experiencing brown discharge outside of your regular menstrual cycle, it could be indicative of other factors, such as hormonal imbalances or even ovulation.

The spotting you noticed on September 20th, along with the brown discharge that followed, could potentially be ovulation spotting. This is a light bleeding that can occur when the ovary releases an egg, typically around the middle of your menstrual cycle. However, given your history of irregular periods and PCOS, it’s also possible that this could be related to hormonal fluctuations rather than a typical ovulation pattern.

Regarding your concerns about whether the blood has been fully expelled or if there is a possibility of insufficient progesterone (which can lead to irregular shedding of the uterine lining), it’s essential to consider that PCOS can disrupt the normal hormonal balance. This disruption can lead to a thickened endometrial lining, which may not shed completely during menstruation, resulting in brown discharge later on.

You mentioned that you have been experiencing yellow discharge as well, which can be a sign of an infection or other underlying issues. If this discharge is accompanied by an unusual odor, itching, or discomfort, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare provider to rule out any infections or other conditions.

As for your current treatment with traditional Chinese medicine, it can be beneficial for some individuals with PCOS, but it’s essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you continue to experience irregularities in your menstrual cycle, persistent brown discharge, or any new symptoms, it would be wise to see a gynecologist. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, including a pelvic exam and possibly an ultrasound, to assess your ovaries and uterine lining. They may also recommend blood tests to check hormone levels, including estrogen, progesterone, and androgens, which can provide insight into your condition and guide treatment options.

In summary, while brown discharge and irregular menstruation can be common in individuals with PCOS, it’s crucial to pay attention to your body and seek medical advice if you have concerns. Regular check-ups with a gynecologist can help you manage your symptoms effectively and ensure that any underlying issues are addressed. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can help regulate your menstrual cycle and improve your overall well-being.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Irregular Periods and Brown Discharge in PCOS Patients

Hello doctor, I have been under a lot of stress and workload over the past year. My menstrual cycle, which used to be every 40 days and regular, has now changed to every two months, and currently, it has been three months since my last period. I visited a gynecologist who diagnos...

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
In the past year, I have experienced increased stress and a heavier workload. As a result, my menstrual cycle, which used to occur every 40 days, has changed to every two months, and now it has even extended to every three months. I visited a gynecological clinic and was diagnose...

Understanding Pregnancy Chances with PCOS and Irregular Cycles

Hello Doctor, (I am currently not planning to get pregnant) I have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and my menstrual cycle is quite irregular. I did not have my period in December, but I had my period from January 22 to January 28. On February 12 and 13, I only had finger penetra...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the chances of pregnancy should be low. It's important to always use contraception. With polycystic ovary syndrome, menstrual cycles can be irregular, and ovulation may also be unpredictable, so extra caution is advised. Wishing you good health.

Understanding Brown Discharge: Causes and Concerns in Women's Health

Hello Dr. Tsao, I have been experiencing irregular menstrual cycles due to long-term late nights and high stress. I underwent a medical abortion on April 24, 2015, and my periods were regular for about two to three months afterward. However, they became irregular again, and since...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, you have some hormonal imbalance. It is recommended to visit a hospital and see a gynecologist for a blood test to check if everything is normal. Wishing you good health.

Understanding Brown Menstrual Blood: What It Means and When to Worry

Hello Doctor: My menstrual period is due at the beginning of July. I started experiencing brown discharge on the 9th and 10th, with a normal amount of bleeding. As of today, the 15th, it has not stopped, but I currently do not have any discomfort. I have previously consulted with...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the factors affecting the menstrual cycle or abnormal bleeding include many aspects such as age, environment, lifestyle, stress, emotional instability, weight changes, medications, emergency contraceptive pills, diet, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), uterine or cervical l...