Brown Discharge: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice

Brown discharge

On August 2, there was friction between my lower body and my boyfriend's lower body with clothing in between, but no sexual intercourse occurred.
The next day, I noticed brown discharge, which has an unclear odor and is not abundant.
This has continued intermittently for three days, and sometimes there is brown discharge when I wipe with tissue.
My period is expected to arrive on August 6.
What could be the reason for this? Do I need to get checked? Thank you!

Yúyú, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/08/05

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
There has been no actual sexual intercourse, and there is no discharge or odor, so the likelihood of inflammation is low.
2.
For a young woman, the possibility of bleeding due to a tumor is also low.
3.
Menstruation has occurred, which rules out bleeding related to pregnancy.
4.
It may just be mild menstrual irregularity; since the symptoms are mild and menstruation has already occurred, it is advisable to observe for a while.
If there is no change, then seek evaluation from a gynecologist.
Sincerely, Dr.
Lu Li-Cheng, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/08/05

More Info

Brown discharge can be a common occurrence and is often related to the menstrual cycle. In your case, since you mentioned that you had some friction with your boyfriend through clothing and that your period is due to start in a few days, the brown discharge you are experiencing could be a few things.

1. Old Blood: Brown discharge often indicates old blood that is being expelled from the body. This can happen at the beginning or end of your menstrual period, as the blood takes longer to exit the body and oxidizes, turning brown. Since your period is expected soon, this could simply be a sign that your body is preparing for menstruation.

2. Ovulation: Some women experience spotting or brown discharge around the time of ovulation, which can occur about two weeks before your period. This is typically lighter and may not last long.

3. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations can cause changes in your discharge. If you are experiencing stress, changes in weight, or other lifestyle changes, these can affect your menstrual cycle and lead to spotting or brown discharge.

4. Implantation Bleeding: If there is a chance of pregnancy, brown discharge could also be a sign of implantation bleeding, which occurs when a fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus. This typically happens about a week after conception, so if you suspect you might be pregnant, it would be wise to take a pregnancy test.

5. Infections or Other Conditions: While less likely given your description, brown discharge can also be a sign of infections or other medical conditions, such as polyps or fibroids. If accompanied by unusual symptoms like a strong odor, itching, or discomfort, it would be advisable to seek medical attention.

When to Seek Medical Advice
You should consider seeking medical advice if:
- The brown discharge continues beyond your expected period.

- You experience any unusual symptoms such as pain, itching, or a strong odor.

- You have concerns about potential pregnancy or if you have missed your period.

- The discharge is accompanied by heavy bleeding or other significant changes in your menstrual cycle.

Conclusion
In summary, the brown discharge you are experiencing is likely related to your menstrual cycle, especially since your period is due soon. However, if you have any concerns or if the discharge persists or changes in character, it would be prudent to consult with a healthcare provider. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly tests, to rule out any underlying issues and provide you with peace of mind. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.

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