Brown Discharge: Is It Blood or Something Else?

Brown discharge resembles bleeding?

At the end of January, I had an abnormal Pap smear.
On February 22, I underwent a pelvic examination and HPV test.
The day after, I started experiencing brownish discharge that resembles bleeding, which feels similar to the end of a menstrual period.
I also have some bloating in my lower abdomen.
My last menstrual period started on January 14, and I am currently in my ovulation phase.
I had previously taken the contraceptive pill for six months, stopped for two months, and have now resumed taking it this month.
I have never experienced any bleeding or abdominal discomfort before.
I am unsure if the discharge is due to post-examination bleeding, breakthrough bleeding from the contraceptive pill, or if there is a cervical lesion.
Additionally, during the break from the pill, I took emergency contraception on February 5, but my menstrual period came normally afterward without any discomfort.
I am wondering if there is any correlation.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/25

Dr. Xu Junrui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

A pelvic exam with HPV testing can indeed cause a small amount of cervical bleeding, but it rarely lasts more than two days.
In your case, since you are taking birth control pills (both before and after), these factors could contribute to irregular menstruation, making it difficult to diagnose the exact cause at this time.
I recommend that you observe your next two menstrual cycles.
Generally, the body tends to self-regulate.
If issues persist, you can consult a gynecologist for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2016/02/25

More Info

Understanding the nature of brown discharge, especially in the context of recent gynecological examinations and hormonal contraceptive use, can be quite complex. The brown discharge you are experiencing could be attributed to several factors, and it’s essential to consider the context of your recent medical history.

Firstly, brown discharge often indicates old blood that has taken longer to exit the body, which can occur at the end of a menstrual period. However, given that you mentioned this discharge started after a cervical smear and HPV test, it could also be a result of minor trauma or irritation to the cervix during these procedures. It’s not uncommon for women to experience light spotting or brown discharge following such examinations, especially if the cervix was manipulated or if there was any inflammation present.

Regarding your use of hormonal contraceptives, it’s important to note that these can also lead to breakthrough bleeding or spotting, particularly when starting or restarting a regimen. Since you mentioned that you had been off the pill for two months and then resumed taking it, your body might still be adjusting to the hormonal changes. Breakthrough bleeding is a common side effect when starting or changing hormonal contraceptives, and it can manifest as brown discharge.

The timing of your symptoms is also significant. You indicated that you are currently in your ovulation period. Some women experience ovulation spotting, which can also present as brown discharge. This is typically light and not accompanied by significant pain or discomfort.

You also mentioned taking emergency contraception on February 5, which can cause hormonal fluctuations leading to irregular bleeding or spotting. It’s possible that the combination of the emergency contraceptive and the resumption of your regular birth control could be contributing to the brown discharge you are experiencing.

As for your concerns about potential cervical changes or abnormalities, it’s crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider. They can perform further evaluations, such as a pelvic exam or additional imaging, if necessary, to rule out any significant issues. If the discharge persists, becomes heavier, or is accompanied by severe pain, it would be prudent to seek medical attention promptly.

In summary, the brown discharge you are experiencing could be due to a combination of factors: post-examination irritation, hormonal fluctuations from starting or stopping birth control, and possibly ovulation-related spotting. It’s essential to monitor your symptoms and consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that any underlying issues are addressed. Regular gynecological check-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider are key to maintaining reproductive health.

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