What Does Brown Vaginal Discharge Mean?
A brown discharge from the vagina is not always abnormal, specifically if there are no associated symptoms.
The vaginal canal is lined by numerous glands which secrete mucous secretions which keep the canal moist and lubricated. Also, this is a part of natural cleaning of the vaginal canal, where the secretions wash away all dirt, tissue debris and germs from the canal to outside.
Causes of Brown Vaginal Discharge
Following Menstrual Flow
Vaginal discharge may be slightly brown in color just after menses, when the uterus cleans itself and the canal.
The normal clear discharge may get mixed with blood and dead cells after the cycle to give this color. Such a discharge is normal and not a point of concern. However, if it persists for a week or more, it needs to be investigated.
After Sex
A brown vaginal discharge after sex may be due to some blood getting mixed with it. It is likely that the act lead to some mild trauma inside, which caused bleeding. The blood gets dried up to give a brown color.
However, if the yellow brown vaginal discharge is persistent for more than two days, it should be investigated. This may be a sign of some infection.
Cervical Cancer
Malignancies are notorious to give little or no symptom at all. If you observe a light brown vaginal discharge or even spotting from the vagina on a persistent basis, it is advisable to go for investigations at the earliest.
An easy screening test called pap smear may be done every 3 years to rule out this cancer.
Vaginal Infections
Some infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea or even warts may give a brownish discharge. The discharge is usually brown and smelly. Other symptoms are usually associated, like pain, itching, bad odor or burning.
At the Time of Ovulation
Ovulation occurs at the 14th day of menstrual period. A clear discharge is common during this day. Sometimes, slight bleeding may occur with the release of egg. This blood turns brown till it reaches the vaginal opening and a brown vaginal discharge may be seen.
Brown Vaginal Discharge During Pregnancy
This may be implantation bleeding. When the egg gets implanted in the uterus, a slight bleeding is possible. This bleed may pass out through the vagina as a light pink or brown discharge.
Uterine Polyp
There may be a growth inside the uterus, like polyps. Such growths bleed with menses. They may also bleed otherwise to give a reddish brown vaginal discharge.
During Perimenopausal Phase
Perimenopause may be associated with a brown discharge. This discharge may sometimes be yellow to reddish brown. It is usually slight in amount. If it is heavy, consult your doctor at the earliest.
Brown vaginal discharge after menopause also needs to be investigated. It may be an indication of some growth in the uterus or else where in the reproductive tract.
Atrophic Vaginitis
This is a condition where the inner lining of the vaginal canal gets thinned out or atrophied. The condition is usually associated with decreased amounts of estrogen as in menopause.
There may be a light brown or yellowish discharge. Itching due to dryness is usually associated. Sexual intercourse is painful.
Certain Pelvic Inflammatory Diseases (PID)
Infection anywhere in the uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes, vagina or the ovaries may lead to a vaginal discharge. Its color may vary from light brown, yellow or reddish, depending upon the infection and its location.
Associated symptoms are usually there, including fever, itching, pelvic pain, foul smelling odor and menstrual irregularities.
Diagnosing a Brown Vaginal Discharge
If you have a brown mucus vaginal discharge on a persistent or recurrent basis, do not ignore it.
Look of any other associated symptom, like:
- Smell of the discharge,
- Whether it is thick brown vaginal discharge or thin. Whether it is light or dark brown in color.
- Any pain in the canal, pain during intercourse.
- Itching or burning in the genital region
- If the discharge is sticky or stringy
- Swelling or redness of the vagina and nearby areas.
Further investigations need to be carried out to diagnose the cause of the discharge.
Treatment would depend upon the underlying cause of the discharge. If it is an infection, antibiotics would be required. Growths inside the uterus require hormonal treatments. If the bleed is heavy, surgical excision may be done.
Malignancy needs to be treated a the earliest.
It’s been almost a week now plus mo days from my menses. I have this pink to light brownish vaginal discharge not foul smelling and it’s not in alarming quantity! I usually have this kind of discharge for two days after menses. Now worried could there be something wrong with me! I’m 24 years and I have one sexual partner.
There are more than one possibilities.
This may be pregnancy or some infection.
In infective states, you’ll find the surrounding area red, itchy. You may self examine with a mirror.
A painless bleed may be malignancy. It is recommended you go to a doctor for examination.
It’s been almost after three weeks now from my menses. I have a thick brown vaginal discharge and it is not in huge quantity! It’s my first time to have this kind of discharge, so is there anything wrong with me? I m 25years and I have one sexual partner.
My waist is painful, after a second I realized this brown vaginal discharge, I wonder what is going on.
This is not normal. Better get it checked up.
Do let us know about it after check up.
Hello. It has already been 2 weeks that I had a yellow vaginal discharge, it smells and it burns. Recently a light brown discharge is added to the list. What could be the cause?
I am 19 years old.
This is likely to be an infection. You need to take antibiotics for this.
It’s better to go to a doctor as early as possible. If left untreated, the infection may travel up to involve other higher reproductive organs.
I’ve been having light brown discharge for over a week and it’s been pretty light. I haven’t gotten my period yet (unless I’m just having a super light one right now), but I have no other symptoms other than maybe slight bloating. Should I be worried?
I lost my virginity 4 days ago. I now am getting some white to light brown discharge. Is this normal? We used a condom and he is clean. It’s just still a scary thought.
Any pain, redness or itching down there?
If not, you may relax. The discharge may be due to the first intercourse you had. This is normal.
I started getting brown discharge (caries in color light/dark) about a week and a half ago. I have PCOS and very irregular periods but always had great blood work. They claim that my being overweight effected it. I just started changing my diet and exercise routine two months prior. So I am not regular and haven’t had a period in 7 months. I have light bloating and mild cramps. Very confused.
PCOS has a relation with being overweight. Loosing weight would help.
As for the brown discharge, let us know if there is any redness or itching down there.
None of those symptoms, it’s just very stringy, and has no odor.
You are unlikely to have any infection down there. The discharge may be related to your PCOS problem.
You need to see a gyne for this.
After having sex, I always have normal discharge. The discharge does have a strong smell and usually lasts about a day. I do wash well but on excessively. After intercourse is the only time it has the odor any other normal body discharge does not have a smell. Could this be because of an imbalance of the bacteria or what could cause this?
After intercourse, it may be your vaginal secretions mixed with semen, or the smell of latex condom mixed with your secretions.
As far as you see no redness or itchiness down there, it is not a problem.
3 months ago, I got this foul smelling discharge that is yellowish/brownish and was treated for UTI. It has recurred and after scan I am told I got fluid in the POD a sign of PID. Now what is the best treatment for this, as I fear what the doctor was suggesting, having the fluid extracted. Is there medication for it?
This appear to be a PID, may be partly bacterial vaginosis. Two different medicines are recommended as treatment for BV: metronidazole or clindamycin.
Though most cases of infections get healed by antibiotic treatment alone, if the infected fluid present in your pelvis is substantial, it’s better to get it drained surgically.
I had intercourse 9, 6, and 2 days ago.
After the first 2 times (9&6) days ago, there was bleeding, though I suspect this was due to possibly being scratched.
However, when I had intercourse 2 days ago, I noticed there was a dark brown discharge accompanied by dark brown, almost black specks, which occurred at the beginning of the day (prior to intercourse), which has only gotten heavier/darker
What could have caused the spotting/ is the bleeding associated with it?
This appears to be something from the uterine cavity. Small clots could have appeared as black specks.
Have you been menstruating until recently? What’s your age?
I am 19.
Until about 6 months ago my cycle was highly irregular, however, I went on birth control pills around then and they have been regular since then.
I noticed that this evening the spotting has decreased but is still present.
Also my period is not supposed to start for another week from today.
That’s alright.
This may happen. It may take a few cycles before your menses normalize.
Is this normal? Or rather, does this happen to women often, should I be concerned/see a doctor?
Yes, this is common.
Hey I’m 19 and I fooled around with someone and I went to the bathroom and had a thick brown discharge. I still have my virginity but like he only stuck the head in. What can this be?
Any itch or pain down there? Is the area red or swollen?
If not, this is unlikely to be an infection. This discharge may be a part of regular house cleaning job being done by your vagina.
Hi! I’m 27 years old and had a long distance relationship. Just this last week, me and my partner had sexual intercourse again after 3mos, we only had 4 days to be together and we made love 3 times and all those intercourse were not withrawal and no protection, which is we always do. We’ve been together for a year but had very limited intercourse due to long distance relationship and everytime we do it we never had any protection and never done any withrawal process. Anyway, just this last week after our intercourse when I get back in my place I had this dark brown smelly discharge and I am very alarm because it was far from the usual. Even when I am wearing pants, I can still smell the disgusting odor down there. Can you please tell me what’s the reason behind this? Is it possible that HE might had an intercourse with other woman that’s why I am having this dark brown smelly discharge. I had irregular menstruation as well, last month I had my menstruation on the 3rd to 7th of november. Please, please I hope you can help me about this. I’ve been so stressed about this and I don’t know what to do. Been having this smell and discharge for about 6 days up to now.
This is very likely to be a vaginal infection. You need to see gyne for a check up. The earlier you start with the medicines, the better it is.
If delayed, the infection can travel upwards and affect other reproductive organs too.
It’s difficult to comment how you got the infection. It may be through infected commodes, intercourse, tampons etc.
I have been having a brownish discharge for nearly a week now. I must admit, this month I have forgotten to take my pill regularly. Could this be the cause?
Yes, this is likely to be the cause.
Do you think I should take a pregnancy test?
Not required. However, if you have a doubt, you may get it done.
Am 22years its two weeks now after my mense but i now have black discharge from my virgina and when i touch inside it on the walls,it is rough what is the problem
I have been having light brown to dark brownish discharge for 2 weeks now. It does have a smell and I do have slight pelvic pain here and there. I had my left ovary and tube removed in 2011 due to a serous fibroadenoma that was recurrent. I am a little concerned and not really sure if this is normal.
Likely to be a pelvic infections, for which antibiotics need to be given.
However, since you have mentioned fibroadenoma in your past history, you need to visit your doctor to rule its recurrence.
Is it normal to have gray discharge after period?
No, this is not normal. This is likely to be an infection.
Do you have any pain or itch?
No, infection of what? How about beige discharge before period?
Is that normal?
Infection of the vagina or may be higher up, that is the uterus.
If you have any swelling or pain down there or any itching or rashes in your groin region, there are chances that it’s an infection.
I had sex with my girlfriend….sep 3rd…yesterdat
Y she got brown bleeding stomach is pain…we used condom is that any problem??
One time bleed may happen. However, this should stop in a day or two.
I am 19 and I have been having dark brown discharge and brown specks ever since having sex over a week ago. It isn’t itchy and doesn’t hurt, but I was expecting it to go away by now. Is this concerning/should I go see a doctor about this, or is it common? My period isn’t supposed to come for another 11 days.
This may happen in normal circumstances. The discharge sounds normal, not giving you any trouble. However, it shoud go in another 3 to 4 days. If not, you need to see a doctor for examination.
Ok, thank you. If it doesn’t go away, what do you think the issue might be?
If it doesn’t go, you need to see a gyne for physical examination.
As you may read above, there are various causes for having a brownish discharge. It may be some trauma, infection or even malignancy.
I have had a brown vaginal discharge for about 2 weeks starting shortly after my last period. There are no other symptoms accompanying the discharge. I had 1 sexual partner before my last period. The discharge ranges from light to heavy. Because there are no other symptoms a bit confused. I am 22 years old.
Since you have no other disturbing symptom, it’s likely to be a normal discharge, a part of the cleaning process done by the vagina from time to time.
However, if this happens again or if you develop any other symptom, you need to get examined.
Hi, I am 21 years old. My period date was supposed to be on 1st of every month. I missed my period and instead getting brown discharge from vagina. I haven’t had any sort of intercourse. What can be the cause for this?
This is abnormal. Has this happened before?
I just had my period and it was light. I am 47; so, I wasn’t concerned; however, I am having a brown watery discharge that is very smell for the past 2days. I am not having any other abnormal pain; but, the stench is aweful. My Dr. can’t see me for 2 weeks. Is this something that needs immediate care? What is it?
You need to be examined for diagnosis. It’s not an emergency. So, you may wait till two weeks.
This may be a mild infection or else the discharge may be coming from some growth inside the uterus.
my period is very irregular and i have mild PCOS. I noticed this year after I have my period about two weeks or a week and half, there’s always like brown watery discharge. It’s very little and usually happens when I wake up in the morning after I pee and wipe. I don’t have any other symptoms, I checked STDs and BV and they came back normal. Had my pap smears also. It is normal to have little brown watery discharge two weeks after period?
You may, if you are on pills or any other related medications.
I am on the contraceptive Evra patch, and yesterday when I went to change patches, I realised it was hanging off on one corner. Now, the next day, I am having dark brown discharge, no odour or pain… I am 19 days into my cycle. What could be causing this?
This may happen when you’re on contraceptive therapy. It’s common.
Continue with your therapy. Do inform your health care provider about the discharge.
Hi, since May I have been getting my period every two weeks. Not normal at all for me. The last two weeks I have been spotting bright red blood with dark brown the last week. I used a mirror and looked down there and noticed some protrusion coming out of my vagina. I have no severe pain just some cramping. 7 months ago I did have some polyps removed. Also I have always had very heavy menstrual cycles. I also have a history with cysts on the ovaries. I am very scared and don’t know what to do for my appointment isn’t until 2 weeks from now. I am 39 and have a family history of uterine cancer. Please give me some advice. I’m really scared
You need to be examined for diagnosis.
However, this is unlikely to be something malignant.
I had intercourse once w/o condom but pulled out.
2-3 days after that I’ve been noticing light brown discharge but no smell or itching. What could be the cause?
FYI I took the emergency contraceptive pills 1 month before but had an early Menses on the 1st of this month so it is unlikely to be menses.
Likely to be a part of house cleaning done by the vaginal canal. Nothing serious.
I’m fifty three years and over a year since menopause, i went to the bathroom to pass my urine and I saw this brownish spot after doing so I’m concerned, this has never happened to me so I’m wondering if it’s serious no odor nothing. That’s smelly I don’t have to wear a pad or panty sheild is only when I go pass my urine.
It’s serious. Go for a check at the earliest.
Hi. I had my first sexual intercourse yesterday July 19,2017. I bled a little and now July 20, 2017 I am having a light brown discharge that is smelly. Is this normal or is this an infection? I am really worried. We did not used a condom but he did withdrawal. What is it? When will it stop?
I think it’s still blood. Is this normal? Why does it smell?
A little smell in common.
Most likely, normal discharge. Since this was your first time, the bleeding may be due to friction during the act. The brown discharge that follows is due to regular cleaning of the vaginal canal.
Will I get pregnant if my period started on july 10 until july 15 and I had unprotected sex on July 19? We did withdrawal method and it was my first time.
I’m expecting my next period around the second week of August.
Yes you can get pregnant. Sperm lives for a few days and after your period you are pretty fertile. Every woman is different, but im preg with my 4th, and i got pregnant after my period and we used the pull out method every time. Not trying to scare you but it could happen. If you dont want to end up pregnant, then condoms or birth control should always be used. Also to prevent sexually transmitted diseases. Please be smart if you are going to continue to be sexually active!!!
Though the act was done within the safe periods, it cannot be assured that you’re not pregnant.
Better to go for a pregnancy test 15 days after the act to be sure.
Hello. I am almost 8 weeks pregnant with my 4th baby. I am 31 years old. For the past few days i have had a light brown (beige colored) and yellowish discharge with a strong odor. No pain or itching. Today it was a little heavier than usual, but i did have a vaginal exam 2 days ago. My OB said she tested for Bacterial Vaginosis as well as other infections, and she noticed a yellowish discharge as well. I had BV with a previous pregnancy but i cant remember the symptoms. It will be a few days for the test results to get back, but im worried. What could this be?
It could be an infection again.
My name is Leah. I am 33 years old. For the past few months, I had a problem during intercourse. I was bleeding and I thought it was the birth control and I left it. After 3 months, I was fine but now I have a light brown discharge coming out on my vagina. No smell but itch. Is this serious or what is the cause?
It could be birth control pill. However, a check up is essential.
Hi Leah again I was using injection the one that last for 2 months not a pill
O.K.
I’m experiencing a rash and brownish discharge but with no smell, after one week having sex with my partner.
Any itching down there, or pain, redness or swelling there?
My husband and I have been ttc for 7 months with little luck. My cycle is 28 days, always arrives on time and is pretty heavy. Last month my period arrived 2 days early was very light and only lasted 2 days. This month my period was due yesterday (Sat) but 4 days prior I started having a brown discharge when I wiped. Today is Sunday still no period but I still have the discharge when I wipe. I took a pregnancy test on last Thursday morning (3days ago) and it came back negative. What could the cause be? It’s not painful or foul smelling.
Needs to be checked up internally by a gyne for diagnosis.
It’s itching.
This looks like an infection. Try anti fungal treatment at the earliest. Candid-V ointment may be used, as directed on its label.
Let us know if it improves.
I am 20 years old I have been treated of an infection resulting from toilet disease, after a year I began to have irregular discharge and it’s whitish in color no pain associated. I went for check up and I was treated for Std, and have never had intercourse before. It’s been two weeks, I finished my menses now I still have brown discharge from light to thick brown with slight abdominal pain, not itchy. What could be happening?
What STD do you have? What medicine did you take?
I don’t take medicine, I don’t like it. I don’t know the STD I have, I was just treated for STD. Since I was treated for a bacterial infection as a result of the toilet disease I had in past I thought it’s the same infection that resulted in STD.
Since you have slight pain with the brown discharge, it’s very likely to be an infection. This may not be the same bug as before. It’s very likely to be different this time.
The older bug must have been killed by the previous course of medicines.
You need to take appropriate antibiotics to get this treated.
I had brown discharge from 2 days ago and no other symptoms. My period after 4 days. I’m virgin.
Are you taking any pills? May be these are your menses?
I have been on birth control for about two months. Since mid July I’ve been experiencing vaginal itching and dryness. I had sex for the first time 10 days ago. 2 days ago I had yellow discharge with bad odour. Yesterday and today I’ve been having brown discharge with no smell. I’ve never missed a pill. Is there a chance that I’m pregnant or is it more likely to be an infection of sorts?
Any pain or discomfort lower down, any fever?
I asked a question two days ago and still haven’t got a response.
Where’s your question? Which page?
I lost my virginity a week+ ago and I’m having brown/pinkish discharge for two days now. I am supposed to take my placebo pills the day after tomorrow. Could this be implantation bleeding? Please help I’m only 17 and I’m so stressed.
Unlikely to be pregnancy. You may get such bleeds weeks after first time sex.
However, better go for a pregnancy test to be sure.
Hi, I’ve been having this brown discharge, I see it after I clean up after I pee. I used a contraceptive pill and I have not had a single spotting. I’m also expecting my period but have not seen it. I’m almost a week late concerning my period. Please help
This may happen when on contraceptive pills. Nothing to worry.
You need to speak to your health care provider about this. Tell her the name of the prescribed pill, and she may help.
I had my period about 2 weeks early, which never happens since I’m on the pill. The day after my period stopped I started to get a very dark brown discharge. The next day I still have the discharge and now my inner vagina lips are swollen and red. There is also a bad burning sensation. There’s no odor to the discharge. I’ve been with the same guy for a year now and this is the first time this has happened. Please help!
This may be an infection. Needs to be checked up by a gyne.
I’m 53 years old had brown spotting about six months ago went to my ob gyn she said we will watch it. I had a D and C and novasure procedure done about five years ago due to hemorraging. I have a positive 16 or 18. One positive one negative. The brown discharge is back. The pain in my back is horrible and the period cramps for lack of a better description is bad. I’m now nauseous every time I eat. I’m so tired I can only stay awake 4-5 hours without a nap. There is an odor. I go faithfully every six months for my Pap smear. I’ve not been feeling right. Very cranky and emotional. I’m calling my doctor in the morning but I’m scared to death. When they did the D and C there were cells that are known to lead to cancer. I’m scared, confused and overwhelmed. Haven’t had a period since my D and C and novasure.
This may be a hormonal problem. But you need to see a gyne at the earliest for diagnosis.
34 years old . Had d&c 08/18/2017 for missed abortion
Would have been my 8th child. Prior to pregnancy and d&c had fishy odor ..wasnt checked just given metro and told bv..smell would go away but come back.also period sometimes twice in a month after d&c bled lightly for couple weeks noticed smell was back . 4 weeks post d&c after intercourse noticed brown discharge when I wiped , was pink at first then next day brown..panicking I may have std,PID or something else serious..no fever feel well..except when the bleeding started felt nauseated and a little off balance but subsided quickly. 4 days after d&c still had a dark positive PT after seeing discharge checked and have a very very faint positive …really concerned
Meant period before d&c was slightly irregular ..havent had AF yet
Difficult to comment without examination.
May be something of pregnancy is left in thee uterine lining.
Hi lately I have noticed that my urine have a dark yellow color but I usually have a low intake of fluid and I recently noticed that after having sex my discharge have a brownish color and a foul smell I am 20 years of age…What can be the causes and how can I treat it ?
What are some causes of UTI and how can it be treated ???
Any pain or burning down there, especially after urination?
Yes during and after
You may be having a mild urinary infection.
Drink plenty of water and fruit juices throughout the day. This would help in washing off the infection from the urinary tract.
If it doesn’t improve in 3 to 4 days, you need to see a doctor. Antibiotics may be required.
Hi I am 23 years old and had (unprotected) sex last night. It wasn’t painful during but about 5mins after sex I started to get a strong burning feeling down there and a bit of swelling too. It has subsided the morning after but throughout the night I had quite a bit of thin, dark brown, odourless discharge. This is still continuing… What could this be?? It doesn’t sting to pee and I’m not due for my period.
Likely to be due to roughness during the act. You may use a lubricating jelly next time.
For now, wash the region with ample water and apply any vaginal emollient over the affected area. Leave it undisturbed. Likely to recover by itself in a day or two.
I am 40 years old, married with one child. Husband had a vasectomy years ago so we don’t use birth control. My period has been regular for years. Most months, I have slight brown discharge for a day or two at the end of my period. This month, it’s been ongoing for nearly 3 weeks and smells awful. It was worse after sex and when going to the bathroom. I was going to call the dr today because I was so worried as this is completely abnormal for me. This morning I was Lying in bed googling “smelly brown discharge” for the 100th time trying to figure out what it could be. I came across another forum with dozens of women with the same symptoms and almost all had the same outcome….. a “lost” tampon. I laid in bed thinking there is NO WAY thats what it is. I’ve had sex several times. I am very small down there and sex is typically super tight for lack of a better description. But I thought, hey what could it hurt. While my husband slept, I tiptoed into the bathroom, propped my foot up on the tub to get as much access as possible, and I COULD NOT BELIEVE IT when I felt A string waaaaaay up and pulled out an old tampon. I am sitting here shocked still because I simply am mortified and stunned that this happened. 25+ years of menstruation and never had anything like this ever happened nor would I have even thought to chveck had others not been writing about it. So I post this here for anyone that has similar symptoms …. the answer (although disgusting!!!!) may be super easy to figure out!!!!
Thanks for caring to give your input. This would definitely be helpful for many!
I had unprotected sex 3 days before my ovulation window and again 6 days after my high peak of ovluation. Although on the 6th day, he did not cum inside. Earlier that day, I experienced my discharge to be stringy and contain some blood specs that did not seem so concerning. Two days later, during my ovulation window my discharge started to turn light brown (No foul smell, no itchiness, no other symptoms). Now I am 6 days in since experiencing the brown discharge. I went to my Gyno for a pap to see what could be causing this underlying issue. Not sure if this is the process for conceiving or I’m having some PCOS. Today, I experienced the brown light discharge. It comes and goes. What do you think this could be ?
Difficult to say without examination.
You may go for a home pregnancy test now.
Im 53,havent had a cycle in over a year,dr said i was going thru menopuase about 6 or 8 months ago, about 2 weeks ago i started out having a brown discharge and then started bleeding and having cramps,is this normal?
No, this is not normal. It’s advisable to see a gyne at the earliest for investigating the cause.
Im very confused because, i was having a makeout session with my boyfriend, i was on top and he was on the bottom fully clothed however we were dry humping it got wet from both sides now im considering that im pregant because we i got home there was blood on my underware a small spot as two days passed brown spots of blood as if i was starting my period or ending my period began to occur, keep in mind i am a virgin i have had no sexual interaction my entire life. now im a bit worried because im supposed to get my period soon but im scared i might be pregnant because i’ve heard that precum even in some cases can cause a pregancy . i felt his penis near my vagina but both of us had underwear and pants on so can this be possible. it was 3 days passed my ovulation cycle, and four days from my next period. its been five days since the act.
Better go for a pregnancy test.
I am 27,I just got married and I have been having unprotected sex.Most times of my life my menstruation has been irregular which I have done different scans and different seen gyne that said there’s nothing wrong with me but of late I started having fishy smelling discharge,makes my pant smell awful sometimes chalk white(very watery makes me always wet)sometimes bloody brown or little clotted blood(once) no pain not itchy .i had spotting few days again ago while having sex with my husband which stopped later that day. i had my menstruation last Nov 2017.i am worried.pls what can I do
Better to go for an ultrasound guided check up. Symptoms are not normal.
having brown smelling discharge for a month now ,no other symptoms,what could be the problem?
Go for a check up at the earliest. Silent brown discharges are more risky. This may be something serious.
Earlier this year I noticed pain during urination..the feeling left few days..then recently I discovered some brown vagina during and pain during sex..please wat test can I go for..
Vaginal swab culture, to rule out any infection there.
Hello I’m 28 years old, my last period started on January 24 and lasted 4-5days, what I’m concerned of is that, after my period I have this watery discharges and it’s like light brown greenish color thing and it has smell, not like the smell of those ordinary discharges I had before,this is my first time experiencing this and it is still present up to this day it was started, my obgyne diagnosed me PCOS a year ago now,.what could it be?is it related to my PCOS? Or is it an infection? Can I take any medicine to get rid of this?because it is annoying specially the smell it really bothers me.
Details added: before that last period until now I changed my eating habits ,I only eat breakfast and lunch, sometimes I eat dinner but most of the time I don’t ,I also drink 1glass of water mixed with 1tablespoon vinegar before my meal.,
Any itch or redness down there? Self examine with a mirror to let us know.
Are you sexually active?
No it Isn’t itchy and no redness , it is just a watery discharges with a light brownish thing and sometimes combine with light greenish thing, and I really don’t like it specially the odor because it isn’t natural of what I experience before,this time is different,yes I am sexually active ,I have a long time partner becoming 4years now,.our last contact was on January ,we don’t really see often to each other because I proceed my college far from our home town,so it’s like we’re together when Semestral break,.
The brownish discharge may be related to PCOS. However, the greenish tinge indicates that the discharge is also infected. You need to see gyne. Antibiotics may be needed.
Hello again Doc ,I’ve already had my period in February and its been 3days now since my period stop,my concern about my case is gone after my period, but I will inform you if anything is unusual appear again,I really hope I won’t experience it again, thank you for your responses and for your suggestions and help,.I really do appreciate it
You’re welcome.
I am 21 years old. I was taking antibiotics for a toe infection for 12 days. I ended the medication on 9th. The toe has healed.
On 21st I thought my period would start, but instead I’ve had brown discharge ( very small amounts of tissue-like thing too) I assumed it was due to the hormonal imbalance. But I’m not sure.
Today is day 3 of the discharge. It’s a dark brown but not blood. And no smell either. And it’s not enough for pad use.
In the middle weeks between 9-21 I had vaginal itching for 2-3 days. ( I also had diarrhoea probably due to the medication. And since it was not very serious, I didn’t consult a doctor. It stopped after I took one probiotic)
Sorry about the information flood but it’s a tad disturbing and I wish to be through.
May be you had some infection in your vaginal tract in sequel to diarrhea, tat gave you the discharge and itch.
Since your vaginal canal would already be cleaning it out by producing discharge, we may wait and observe for 3 to 5 days. If you still get any itch , pain or discharge down there, get evaluated by a gyne to rule out the chance of any infection.
My husband and I just had sex minutes ago, when I went to the bathroom to pee and wash, theres a brownish discharge that dropped on the bowl. The similar thing happened about a month or two ago, 2 days after intercourse, I was haveng brownish to light brown mucus discharge for 3 days. Should I be worried?
If it comes one or two times in sequel to sex, it’s normal. However, if you keep getting it over days, or it smells bad, needs evaluation.
Hello! My name is Tina.. and me and my boyfriend had sex on the 25th of February and I had my period early February. (This was my first time having sex.) he used a condom and he also pulled out before he came. But on March 5 I had brown discharge is that normal? I keep seeing that it’s early signs or pregnancy and it’s honestly freaking me the hell out. I don’t have pain. No tenderness. The discharge does have a odor… I’m so stressed.
The brown discharge is dry.. so is it dried up blood?
This may be a normal discharge you get after first time sex. However, better go for a home pregnancy test to be sure.
I had unprotected sex a couple months ago and a couple days after I started getting this brown discharge with a odor . It’s been going on for months now and im scared to go to a doctor .. what could be wrong
If it’s bad smelling, this is very likely to be an infection. You need to see a gyne for appropriate medicines.
An infection like what ?
Needs to be checked for diagnosis.
I had sex with someone 3 days ago. Ever since I have been having a lot of discharge. Today we had sex again and during sex there was a brown discharge and a really bad smell. The smell has gotten worse after and it’s burning a bit. Do you think I have received a sti?
Very likely to be an infection. Needs to be checked up.
Hi! Ok so I am freaking out for some odd reason. I’m on the pill (have been for 9+ months) and am pretty good at taking it at the same time every day give or take a one or two hour difference every once in a while. I had sex w/o a condom on march 5/early morning march 6 and today (march 14,7/8 days later) i saw that there was slight brown discharge and when i wiped there was a small trace of red and pinkish discharge (no unusual smell). I’ve had sex w/o a condom on the same birth control pill before and never experienced spotting or weird discharge. I also had some lower back pain earlier today and wonder if that is tied to the spotting and i have a feeling that there will be more discharge in the morning since i saw it for the first time right before going to bed. I also just found out that I might have an overactive thryoid (nothing concrete yet… getting another blood test done in May) but I don’t think that would have caused spotting or lower back discomfort. I’m just concerned that maybe it was implantation bleeding, but I know you don’t ovulate while on the pill but my mind keeps racing and thinking I’m pregnant since I know my body and that was kind of unusual and there is still a small chance of getting pregnant even on the pill. I have an appointment with the gyno next wednesday (3/21) which is when i am gonna take a pregnancy test because anytime before is too soon even though i want to take one so badly right now. I keep thinking worst case scenario which is weird because I have never panicked about this before!!! please help!
**forgot to mention that the reason I think it’s implantation bleeding is because its around 7 to 8 days after sex but i’m still not sure since im on the pill. any help is greatly appreciated!!!
Unlikely to be pregnancy. Still, you may go for a pregnancy test to rule it out.
This may be a mild infection. Needs to be examined for diagnosis.
I had sex this week on Thursday and the condom spilt, so the next day I went into a clinic and got a morning after pill. So I thought everything would be fine. Now it’s a Saturday afternoon I’ve had white discharge then brown after, which has a quite strong smell. I’m not sure what’s going on. Please can you tell me, I’m quite worried as I Am 17and not wanting to be pregnant, thank you!
Unlikely to be pregnancy.
However, it’s a good idea to wait for a week and then go for a home pregnancy test to be sure.
a little over a week after unprotected sex (no condom but on birth control) i had some light lower back cramping and a very small light brown discharge and a very very small amount of blood when i wiped. it went away the next day but returned and was stronger a couple days later and has been lingering but was now more of a spotting with some light but noticable cramping. i still have a little over a week until my period is supposed to come and started having this around 2 weeks before my period. i had sex during the the 3rd day of the first week of my active pills, right after my “period” ended but i should be protected since i’ve been on the pill for a couple of months right? i just want to make sure this discharge wasn’t a sign of my birth control failing/sign of very early pregnancy or if i possibly have an infection. Thank you
update: i just went to the restroom and there was dark red spotting like more of fresh blood that even looked like it could be the start of my period but i’m still on my third week of active pills. what could this be?
There can be varied reasons for getting such post coital bleeds. May be a cervical erosion or an infection. Needs to be checked up. A cervical exam may be needed.
Though, in around 50% cases, it may turn out to be nothing. Females on birth control pills have a thickened cervix, which may bleed easily after sex.
i could still get post coital bleeding even if the last time i had sex was ~2 weeks ago? my concern is that the light brown discharge slowly turned to what looks like the start of my period but perhaps the bleeding im experiencing 2 weeks after sex and one week before my period (so still taking active pills right now) is breakthough bleeding/chlydamia infection? thanks so much for your help agin!
All infective bleed would be foul smelling. They are mostly accompanied with some pain in lower abdomen.
Unlikely to be pregnant.
Infection cannot be ruled out without actual examination. You may wait for a week or so. If you still have the discharge and back ache, see a gyne to rule out infection.
I feel pain on my vagina canal and sometimes burning sensation.I went to my doc and she did pcr culture to rule out sti, the result came back negative for all. She say there is nothing in me and send me home.
Few days later, my period supposed to come but it didn’t but I do experience period symptoms. Few days after my period is due, I noticing I had brown color spotting for a week now with odor. I still feel very pain on my vaginal canal and also on the labia but no redness with burning sensation. I suspect I have chlamydia but the pcr swab result show it is negative.
I couldn’t believe the result then I went for another full sti check using blood instead of swab and I’m waiting for the result. But I read online that blood result for chlamydia is not accurate and should be ignore. What do u think I’m having? Pls advise as I’m really lost. Could the fist swab unable to catch the disease?
Likely to be an infection. May show up in the bleed test now.
Else, it could be due to your hormones. This may also be the reason for delay in period. A gyne check up may be needed in this case.
Hi, I’ve been having a light brown discharge for several months now. Enough that I wear a pad at all times. It has a slight smell. I’m not sexually active and not on birth control. I was recently treated for a UTI and kidney infection. I’m am still having severe back pain. No itching, redness, or swelling. I’m 43 years old. I have MS so I have to catheterize every time I go to the bathroom. My PCP just called in some more antibiotics. Should I be worried about something serious?
Are you having regular menses?
I am 59y not sexually active in 10 yrs except on rare occasion oral sex with my husband. This occurred 1 1/2 weeks ago now Ii am having a brown heavy discharge no odor or pain so far , I have a low fluid intake due to having had gastric sleeve 3 yr ago,, also very tired which is not normal for me. Cannot remember my last pap smear either,Cancer does run in my families well as endomttrosis. What might your thoughts be?
Also swelling in my lower legs after being gat work all day 3 plus pitting edema.
When did you acquire menopause? Any problem during that phase? Any pills prescribed to you during menopause?
menopause 10+ years ago not on any medication
You need to be investigated urgently by a gyne. Better don’t delay. A ultrasound, papa smear and some blood work are a must for diagnosis.
It may be senile atrophy of your uterine wall, vaginal linings etc. that’s giving you the bleed. However, investigations are essential to rule out any other pathology.
okay I just recently lost my virginity during this month & didn’t use protection .. I’ve been having a brownish light colored foul smelling discharge lately nothing hurts it’s just this but I’m scared because this has never happened before & last time I had intercourse with my partner I started bleeding
Any redness/ itching down there? Any pain in tummy or groin area?
I have an IUD and I have been experiencing brown discharge for two weeks after taking an antibiotic. I haven’t seen my period for two months before I took the antibiotic. Is this normal? Should I expect it to clear up on it’s own? Or seek medical help?
Better seek medical help. You may need to get the IUD changed.
Had a baby 2 years ago only had my period ones after her birth now I have a light brown discharge and when I have intercourse it hurts
You need to be evaluated by a gyne. An ultrasound is needed.
For the last year or so I have brown discharge, sometimes stringy, after my period that can last around 8-10 days after my period is over. I use vcf contraceptive spermicide gel (contains Nonoxynol-9). I’ve gone to the gyn. Said uterus is closed just lots of brownish stuff on cervix. Why would this happen? Also, I think I get a yeast infection every month before a period. I use over the counter clomitrazole suppositories when it feels bad. Any suggestions?
Hi, I’ve been diagnosed with pcos. And I haven’t had my period for 5 months and within those months I never had any spotting or discharge. So my boyfriend and I were together for a week. We had unprotected sex and there was no withdrawal and I am not on pills. So he came inside me for a lot of times. When I checked my period tracker (pretty doubtful to rely on it because I’m irregular) since it was still active. I was shocked to know that we had those sex on my fertile week. And now it’s been a week after the intercourse. I’ve noticed brown discharge on my undies. My question is, could I be pregnant even if I’m that irregular? Or what could the brown discharge be. And oh it doesn’t have a bad smell.
Yes, you could. Better go for a pregnancy test to be sure.
Hi, I hadn’t had sex for 2 and half years before a month ago, it was partially unprotected at first on one occasion but both other times protected. I am on the evra patch and have been for 2 months. Had a normal withdrawal bleed a couple of weeks ago and came on 3 days after taking the patch off. Then had a bit of a stringy yellowy discharge for a couple of days followed by thicker white gloopy discharge so I took a Canestan pessary. Seemed to be ok for a few days but today I’ve been having period type cramping and spotting which has included a bit of dry almost beige colour discharge. Could this be the patch and hormones as only been on it 2 months? Desperately seeking advise.
Any itching or redness down there?
Slightly itchy around clitoris and on inspection there is white bits. Discharge varies from really watery to then the thick white dry discharge all in The same day. Have just bought a flucanozole tablet as the discharge is causing irritation and slight redness. There’s no strong smell
You may try anti fungal treatment. Better use flucanozole ointment down there, instead of the tablet. Apply it liberally over the area every night for a week.
Let us know if it works.
Hi I’m 9dpo ovulation I had cramping on my left lower abdomen only. Plus I was spotting 7dpo. I have PCOS too. I’m nervous if I’m pregnant.
Though you’re unlikely to be pregnant, it’s better to go for a home pregnancy test to be sure.
Having brown discharge now. Is this to be expected? started on Evra patch 2 months ago. Slight period type pain but nothing else. Worrying me that it’s an infection but think it’s more likely my body getting used to the patch. Please help
This is very likely to be due to the patch. Your body is adjusting to it.
My periods also varies every time it started from 6-10-26-19-17 and back to 6
Any itch, pain or burning there? If not, this appears to be normal.
It’s common for cycles to fluctuate in those growing years. You may wait patiently and let them stabilize.
I finishd my periods 3 days ago but now after intercours light brown discharg going on with no smell but pain like a menses..i newly married.
That’s normal. Nothing to worry.
Hi doc, I really need your help. I had my period sept 18-21 it lasts 3 days after that I had sex with my husband no withdrawal but I’m taking birth control pills everyday even I have period coz that’s what my health care provider gave me. So now after having sex, I saw a brownish thing or dark spotting which I consider that I maybe not have finished with my period but my question is I am in 2 weeks now and its still the same, and I am very worried and scared now coz I never had problem like this before. I am 25y.o, today it’s 2 weeks and still have spotting black color and now I have pain in a lower left abdomen which makes me worried more so please I need advice and help. Thank You very much and God bless!
And just yesterday I was getting worried so I decided not to have sex with my husband. By the way we are very active in sex so I don’t know what really causes of this black or brown spotting. And also just today I had this left lower abdominal pain which makes me stressed out. ??
Since there pain in your abdomen, that can’t be explained, you may need to see a gyne. An ultrasound may be needed.
Hi doc the pain is just very light, not that bad and now it’s gone. But I still have that black spotting, today my panty liner is almost full and its black ? Do You think this is an infection or too much sex? The blood is like old blood and sometimes it’s like watery with brown like a coffee something like that.
Thank You for the response doc. God bless!
Just having sex cannot explain this discharge. May be an infection or some uterine problem. An ultrasound would reveal it.
Do update us after your check up.
I actually don’t know when I will
Go and see a doctor coz I’m just new here in US ? but anyway doc, I have no more spotting now but I still have cramping, left abdominal pain and back pain. ?
Still goes in favor of infection and needs a check up.
Drinking plenty of water would help.
Hi, i had sex with my partner 4 days ago with withdrawal and the next day i had very minor brown discharge which was only present in the morning when i wiped and then none for the rest of the day. Today seems to be slightly more than usual and i also had the brown discharge when i went to the toilet in the afternoon. Before this, my last intercourse with withdrawal was almost 2 months ago (early august) and i had my period a week after that. Since then i had not gotten my period yet but I’m usually quite irregular. So I hope you are able to advise why am i having this brown discharge.
I was also involved in a car accident early last month with no major injuries, just some body aches, bruises and some occasional stomach upset. Not sure if the late period and brown discharge is due to my trauma from my car accident.
Any pain in lower abdomen, redness or itching down there?
No lower abdominal pain and i don’t seem to notice any redness either but i do have some occasional itching but i had the itching on and off even before the brown discharges. I always thought its because i was really hairy down there.
This is unlikely to be an infection then. May be a hormonal issue.
Are you on any kind of pills?
No I’m not on any pills but i did took pain killers after i got into the car accident but only for a week then i stopped.
Is there any possibility that i could be pregnant? Because i did read a lot of websites saying that brown discharges could be a sign of implantation bleeding.
Though the brown discharge seems to be going away already now. I had slightly more dark brown discharges on the 5 – 7th day compared to the 1 – 4th day though not a lot for me to wear a pad, just a panty liner was sufficient.
Though pregnancy is unlikely, you may consider taking a home test after 12 to 15 days from last intercourse.
I am 24 years old. Have had irregular periods ever since I first got my period. I have 1 sexual partner. Recently my period was arriving monthly. I finished my last period on the 29th of August. My partner and I have sex regularly with a condom, I am not on any medication. My period did not come end of September which was not a worry as I am used to irregular periods. My partner and I had sex on the 5th of October without a condom and then again on the 6th with a condom, after that encounter I bled lightly that night. The next day and till now I have had a light brown discharge. I have taken two pregnancy tests, one last week and one yesterday and both are negative. There is no itching or pain or redness. I have no idea what it could be.
Though this is unlikely to be pregnancy, you may go for another home pregnancy test after one more week. This would be just to be sure.
The brown discharge looks more like a hormonal issue, linked with your irregular menses. Consider treating your cycles to achieve normal regular ones.
Have you ever got evaluated for this? If yes, can you share the reports here.
5 years ago I had some blood tests done, my hormones came back normal, I then had some ultrasounds done and it was found that I had one cyst on my right ovarie that increased in size before my period and decreased after my period. I was told that it was not an issue.
It’s common to have small ovarian cysts during reproductive age groups in females. Most of them are hormone responsive and regress on their own with cycles.
Hello, I had pcod problem experienced irregular periods at that time but since a year my periods r regular without any complications it is resolved…now me n my husband had sex with protection before a week of my period after our intercourse I didn’t get my period on d same day as in d last month ,after a week I notice scanty red period appearance so I felt that is my period but shockingly it appears brown blackish discharge with foul smelling for 3days without any abdominal pain ,discomfort ,vaginal itching redness..am concussing that does it is my period r else something serious problem ? Please help me
Could be a part of housekeeping your vagina does at regular intervals.
Nothing to worry, unless you see this repeatedly.
Thanks for ur rply, now am feeling burning mictirition n some pricking type of sensation since a day with blackish discharge without abdominal pain…I had a doubt when I go through some internet info ,does it indicates any obstruction of foreign particle in the vagina why bcoz my husband had use condom while we intercourse..
Now this sounds like an infection. You may need to see a gyne and take a course of antibiotics for this.
I haven’t been sexually active for many months now, haven’t seen my period for two months also I started seeing a brown colored discharge four days ago.. What do I do?
Is it foul smelling? Any pain/ redness or itchiness down there? Your age?
I am 19 years old. Ive already had my period this month and have not had sex since. The period was 2 weeks ago.I have just started having a light brownish discharge today. No smell, swelling, or irritation. I dont know if it corralates or not, but here recently I have been constipated, not been able to know when I need to pee, frequent urination but the urination are very little. I also have been taking a birth control pill since the beginning of this month. I do suffer from chronic migraines, and have been experiencing a pressure headache every now and then. This discharge really has me worried and this is all the information I know to give you. Please help.
Likely to be due to the contraceptive pills you’ve started. It takes time for your organs to adjust with these pills.
25 y/o female, irreglar cycles for the past 6 months sometimes 17 days, sometimes 30 days, and sometimes inbetween. last time i had sex was 2 wks ago, on my period. tonight had sex and had brown blood on the condom and noticed when we were finished. no burning, no itching, no pain. weve been together for 4 months now and always use protection. im not on any birthcontrol. just want to know whats going on. there shouldnt be any chance of pregnancy and weve been tested for stds since before we got together to ensure each others safety. ive never had ovulation bleeding either. im just confused.
You’ll need to see a gyne dear. Physical exam is essential for diagnosis. Brown blood after sex may be due to trauma or some infection. Malignancies are very uncommon in your age.
Irregular menses point towards some hormonal disturbance going on.
Hi. So for the past 3 months, after my boyfriend and I have sex, I get a brown discharge about 3 days after. Him and I usually have sex 3-4 days after my period is over. Last month I got tested for STIs and treated for bacterial vaginosis so I thought that was the problem but we just had sex this week and now I have the discharge again. Could I possibly still have the bacterial vaginosis or what could it be?
Could be infection again. You need to get yourself tested.