Why is leucorrhea brown?

Brown leucorrhea may be related to ovulatory bleeding, before and after menstruation, gynecological inflammation, endometriosis, cervical lesions and other factors.

1. Bleeding during ovulation

A brief drop in estrogen levels during ovulation may cause a small amount of uterine lining to shed, causing brown discharge mixed with leucorrhea. It usually lasts for 2-3 days, has no special smell, and may be accompanied by a slight feeling of distension in the lower abdomen. It is recommended to keep the vulva clean, avoid strenuous exercise, and observe the menstrual cycle for 1-2 months. If it occurs repeatedly or is accompanied by pain, a gynecological examination is required to rule out pathological factors.

2. Before and after menstruation

1-2 days before the onset of menstruation or 1-3 days after the end of menstruation, the leucorrhea may appear brown when the residual menstrual blood in the uterine cavity is slowly discharged. This is a normal physiological phenomenon and usually does not require special treatment. It is recommended to use breathable cotton underwear and avoid vaginal douching immediately after menstruation to prevent damage to the microenvironmental balance.

3. Gynecological inflammation

Bacterial vaginosis or cervicitis may cause vaginal discharge that is brown and smelly. Common pathogens include Gardnerella and anaerobic bacteria. Typical symptoms include vulvar itching, burning sensation, and purulent discharge in severe cases. Medications such as metronidazole vaginal gel and clindamycin phosphate vaginal tablets can be used as directed by the doctor. Sexual intercourse must be avoided during treatment.

4. Endometriosis

Bleeding from ectopic endometrial tissue may cause brown leucorrhea, which is often accompanied by progressively worsening dysmenorrhea and dyspareunia. Chocolate cysts can be seen on ultrasound, and the CA125 index may be elevated. Treatment options include dienogest tablets, goserelin sustained-release implants and other drugs to inhibit intimal growth. In severe cases, laparoscopic surgery is required to remove the lesions.

5. Cervical lesions

Cervical polyps, erosions or intraepithelial neoplasia may cause contact bleeding, which may appear as brown discharge after blood oxidation. TCT and HPV screening are recommended, polyps can be removed through outpatient surgery, and high-grade lesions require cervical conization. Regular review is required after surgery to avoid premature resumption of sexual life.

Daily attention should be paid to observing the duration, odor changes and accompanying symptoms of brown leucorrhea. Maintain a regular schedule and properly supplement foods containing vitamin E and selenium, such as nuts, deep-sea fish, etc. Avoid long-term use of panty liners, choose loose and breathable cotton underwear, and wash your vulva with warm water every day. If the brown discharge lasts for more than 1 week, or is accompanied by abdominal pain, fever and other symptoms, it is recommended to seek medical treatment in time for targeted diagnosis such as colposcopy and ultrasound.