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Brown discharge during pregnancy can have different meanings, depending on the stage of your pregnancy and any other health problems you're having. Brown vaginal discharge can be a normal sign of early pregnancy, but when present with other symptoms, it can be a sign that something more serious is going on. Any pregnant woman who is concerned about a change in vaginal discharge, or a dark brown discharge, should contact her doctor for a complete examination.
1. Causes of brown discharge during pregnancy Physiological discharge is a clear and thin white substance excreted by the vagina. This is a normal function of a healthy vagina and is nothing to worry about. Women may notice a change in the texture, smell, and color of vaginal discharge.
Pregnancy has many effects on the body, it is normal for women to have changes in secretions corresponding to the stages of pregnancy.
1.1. Brown discharge in early pregnancy Brown discharge usually means there is blood in the discharge. When the blood comes out after a while, it oxidizes, turning from deep red to brown. Research indicates that bleeding is not uncommon during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Although some brown discharge is normal in early pregnancy, it's best to talk to your doctor about this symptom. The doctor will perform additional tests to check the health of the pregnant woman and the fetus, which helps to bring peace of mind to the pregnant woman and timely treatment if any complications occur.
Embryo implantation Bleeding Light bleeding can occur very early in pregnancy because the embryo implants in the lining of the uterus. Light brown discharge as the body removes this blood from the uterus.
Hormonal changes A pregnant woman's body goes through many changes in a relatively short period of time. The increase in hormones that occurs during pregnancy increases blood flow to the reproductive organs.
In some women, this can make the cervix particularly sensitive. Irritation of the cervix during sex or even a vaginal exam can cause bleeding, resulting in brown discharge during pregnancy.
Ectopic pregnancy A less common but serious cause of brown discharge during pregnancy in the first trimester is an ectopic pregnancy.
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants and grows outside of the uterus, such as in a fallopian tube or in an old incision. An ectopic pregnancy is an emergency that requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms include varying degrees of abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding. Women may experience pain on one side or the entire abdomen.
A fertilized egg is unlikely to survive outside the uterus, which means most ectopic pregnancies result in miscarriage. If left untreated, an ectopic pregnancy can cause serious complications. Any woman who suspects an ectopic pregnancy should seek medical attention immediately.
1.2. Later in pregnancy During the third trimester, brown discharge may indicate labor is approaching or has complications.
Bleeding Brown discharge in the last days before labor can be a sign of impending labor. The discharge may be pink, red, or brown with bloody mucus. Besides, brown mucus during pregnancy isn't the only type of vaginal discharge to watch out for late in pregnancy. Many women also shed the cervical mucus plug during this time.
Preterm labor Bleeding that occurs later in pregnancy, but before 37 weeks, can be a sign of preterm labor. Other symptoms will also occur, such as: brown discharge with back pain during pregnancy, frequent uterine contractions, broken water. Anyone who may be in preterm labor should get medical attention right away.
Placenta previa Placenta previa occurs when part of the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix. A small number of women have placenta previa that may cause no symptoms, but others may experience varying degrees of vaginal bleeding later in pregnancy - as the uterus gradually increases in size. .
Placenta previa can cause birth complications, so early diagnosis and treatment are essential.
1.3. Signs During Pregnancy Some causes of brown discharge during pregnancy can occur at any time during pregnancy.
Cervical Polyps Increased blood circulation around the cervix during pregnancy can cause growths known as polyps. When the cervix is irritated, sex or vaginal examination can cause cervical polyps to bleed.
Many doctors recommend not removing polyps during pregnancy unless they cause a lot of discomfort or interfere with pregnancy. One study noted that removing polyps during pregnancy may increase the risk of preterm birth or miscarriage.
Miscarriage In some cases, brown discharge during pregnancy can also be a sign of miscarriage, or stillbirth. However, this is usually not the only symptom. Other symptoms to watch out for include: uterine contractions, severe abdominal pain, fatigue, and sudden loss of pregnancy symptoms.
From brown discharge can progress to fluid containing more fresh blood and can change to bleeding similar to menstruation.
Anyone experiencing these symptoms should contact a doctor promptly.
2. When to see a doctor Brown discharge during pregnancy without other symptoms is common, and usually isn't a cause for concern. However, discharge accompanied by other symptoms, such as pain, uterine contractions, or fever, may be a sign of related conditions.
Pregnant women who notice changes in discharge, along with other unpleasant symptoms, should contact their doctor. The doctor can then treat any problems early to prevent complications.
To diagnose the pathology that causes brown discharge during pregnancy, doctors first ask about the symptoms that the pregnant woman is experiencing.
Then the doctor can perform various tests to check the health of the woman and the fetus. A pelvic exam helps to identify the signs of an irritation causing the brown discharge. The doctor may also take a little discharge from the cervix to check for infections or other problems. Ultrasound helps to identify other problems, including an ectopic pregnancy, or simply to ensure the health and viability of the fetus.
Treatment will depend on the cause of this brown discharge, the stage of pregnancy, and the health of both you and your developing baby.
Several treatments for different causes include:
Antibiotics in case of infection Avoid sexual activity Surgery in ectopic pregnancy Increase bed rest Cesarean section Should be determined Diagnose the cause before applying any treatment.
While some causes of brown discharge during pregnancy are normal, it is important to pay attention to other accompanying symptoms. Any time other symptoms appear, such as uterine contractions or a fever, you should see your doctor. Diagnosing the cause can take time, but it's important to address the underlying problem and ensure the health of the woman and fetus.
At Vinmec International General Hospital, there is a package maternity service as a solution to help pregnant women feel secure because of the companionship of the medical team throughout the pregnancy. When choosing Maternity Package, pregnant women can:
The pregnancy process is monitored by a team of highly qualified doctors Regular check-ups, early detection of abnormalities The package pregnancy helps to facilitate convenient for the birthing process Newborns get comprehensive care
Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.