Why is My Discharge Brown?
For females, vaginal discharge is not only a core physical function related to the reproductive system, but it is also a central component of their daily lives. Fluids produced by glands located inside the vagina and the cervix function as cleaning agents, taking away bacteria and dead cells.
Not only does it help keep the private areas clean, but it also helps women to stay away from diseases and infection.
But even though vaginal fluids stay normal for the most part and vary according to the menstrual cycle, abnormalities can occur. In fact, females often experience changes in the color or odor of their discharge and questions like “why is my discharge brown?” spring up.
However, when such a situation occurs, you do not have to panic (even though it is hard not to). In this article, we are going to discuss the very question posed in the title “why is my discharge brown?”
To begin with, color abnormalities in vaginal fluids are frequent with different types of vulvovaginits, such as bacterial vaginosis. Vulvovaginitis is basically an infection of the vulva, and it is not age-restricted.
These infections can be caused by:
- Viruses
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases
- Yeast
- Bacteria
It is a yeast infection that explains why your discharge is brown. This usually happens if the infection is intense and is contracted during the cycle. The bacteria responsible for this infection is known as candida albicans.
As far as the odor is concerned, a yeast infection may have little or no odor. Good news is this infection can be cured at home. However, this is only a one-time solution, i.e. you will experience a brownish discharge again.
The same is true for non-prescriptive medications. They do not cure the condition permanently. However, you can get rid of it for good by taking the professional treatment.
Moving on, there are conditions that can make your discharge brown. For example, pelvic inflammatory disease or PID can also make your discharge brown. This is yet another bacterial infection that affects the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries.
The bacteria involved in this condition are known as Chlamydia and gonorrhea. PID usually taints the odor of the discharge. Other effects include:
- Pain in the pelvis
- Pain in the lower back
- Pain during urinating
- Post-coitus bleeding
These symptoms cannot be ignored and you should immediately seek medical help if you experience them.
Yet another reason why your discharge turns brown are genital warts. This is an STD which causes a viral skin disease where lumps begin to appear on the genitals. Along with a brown discharge, genital warts also result in vaginal bleeding after coitus as well as itching.
Once again, do not attempt to treat these conditions on your own with over-the-counter medications. Simply visit the doctor as soon as possible.
Lastly, if you discover that discover that your vaginal fluids are continuously “watery” brown or pink, you may possibly have cervical cancer. If you notice brown or pink discharge which is bloody and has a foul odor, do not delay in seeking medical help. The same holds true for any bloody discharge between cycle or after menopause.
