Brown Discharge After Menstruation: Causes and When It's Normal

Brown discharge after menstruation is a common reason for questions to a gynecologist. Below is an analysis of which variants are considered normal, what the color and timing indicate, and when it makes sense to plan a visit to the doctor.

Why there is discharge after menstruation

In most women, the cycle falls within the range of 21 to 35 days, and menstruation lasts from 2 to 7 days, more often about five. The main blood loss occurs in the first two days: at this time the blood is usually red, and on lighter days it may be pink or brown. About 1 to 5 tablespoons of blood are lost during menstruation.

Bleeding from the genital tract outside of menstruation is called intermenstrual bleeding. Most of its causes are benign and easily treatable, but sometimes bleeding is associated with cancer or precancerous changes, so any unusual bleeding should be evaluated by a doctor immediately.

Brown discharge immediately after menstruation

Any unusual bleeding outside of menstruation is evaluated by a doctor; he asks when the bleeding starts, how long it lasts, and how heavy it is.

Brown and bloody discharge a week after menstruation

Discharge a week after the end of menstruation is bleeding between periods. Possible explanations include polyps of the cervix or uterus, fibroids, fluctuations in hormone levels, inflammation or infection of the cervix (cervicitis) and the lining of the uterus (endometritis), an intrauterine device, which sometimes causes episodic spotting, decreased thyroid function, use of anticoagulants, pregnancy and its complications, including ectopic.

If there is a possibility of pregnancy, a pregnancy test is among the examinations.

Bright red blood after menstruation

On the heaviest days of menstruation, the first two, the blood is red. Bleeding that does not coincide with the timing of menstruation is evaluated by a gynecologist.

Uterine bleeding is described as bleeding from the uterus associated with benign and malignant tumors, organic diseases, hormonal ovarian dysfunction, and endometriosis, much less often with trauma or blood disorders.

When discharge after menstruation requires examination

An examination is possible even during discharge — there is no need to postpone the visit because of it. The doctor performs a general and gynecological examination and asks about the bleeding: when it starts, how long it lasts, how heavy it is, whether there are cramps, whether there is pain during urination, blood in the urine or stool.

Examinations include blood tests to assess thyroid and ovarian function, cervical cultures, colposcopy and cervical biopsy, endometrial biopsy, Pap smear, pelvic ultrasound, sonohysterography, hysteroscopy, pregnancy test. One should consult a doctor if:

• there is any unexplained bloody discharge between menstruations;
• bleeding appeared after menopause;
• menstruations are heavy;
• bloody discharge is accompanied by pelvic pain, weakness, dizziness;
• pregnancy is possible against the background of any discharge.

Bleeding after menstruation by itself is not a reason to call an ambulance; 103/112 — for a life-threatening condition.

The material is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation.

This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer