Brown Discharge While Pregnant

The discharge of leukorrhea, clear or white discharge from the vagina, is a normal, healthy part of being a woman. Occasionally, this discharge is tinged with blood. Blood turns brown as it dries, so most of the time brown discharge contains blood. Most of the time, this brown discharge is normal and not a cause for concern. Common causes of brown discharge are implantation bleeding, sex, mucus plugs, or sexually transmitted infections such as bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis. In some cases, brown discharge is considered not normal, such as: infection, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or molar pregnancy. Contact your doctor if you have questions about brown discharge while pregnant. 

An OB-GYN and maternal-fetal medicine specialist in Chicago, Layan Alrahmani, says "The overwhelming majority of pregnant people with brown discharge don't have anything dangerous to be worried about." 

What is Implantation Bleeding? 

The Cleveland Clinic says, “Implantation bleeding is an early sign of pregnancy that occurs when a fertilized egg implants into the wall of your uterus. It can cause light bleeding (or spotting) that lasts up to two days. Implantation bleeding is considered a normal part of pregnancy.” It normally occurs 10-14 days after ovulation and can often be mistaken for a period. 

Common Causes of Bleeding after Intercourse 

Bleeding after intercourse can be caused by vaginal dryness. A little brown discharge after intercourse is not uncommon and does not necessarily indicate anything is wrong with the pregnancy, though it is a good idea to speak to your doctor. 

Signs of Miscarriage 

The NHS says the following regarding miscarriages, “Light vaginal bleeding is relatively common during the first trimester (first 3 months) of pregnancy and does not necessarily mean you're having a miscarriage.” However, vaginal bleeding can be a sign of miscarriage as well. “This can vary from light spotting or brownish discharge to heavy bleeding and bright-red blood or clots. The bleeding may come and go over several days.” To distinguish between the two, it is important to look at other symptoms such as cramping in the lower abdomen or no longer experiencing pregnancy symptoms. 

Ectopic Pregnancy 

Ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside of the womb. An ectopic pregnancy is not viable and is an urgent medical situation. NHS says symptoms of ectopic pregnancy include: 

• Persistent and severe stomach pain, usually on one side

• Vaginal bleeding or spotting, commonly after the pain has started

• Pain in the tip of your shoulder 

• Diarrhea and vomiting

• Feeling very faint and lightheaded, and possibly fainting

Symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy usually appear between weeks 5 and 14 of the pregnancy.

So, What Should I Do When I See Brown Discharge While Pregnant? 

You should consult your doctor. In addition to that, know that resources for pregnant women are available in your community. At CORE Healthcare for Women of Central Georgia, we provide information and resources to help you through your pregnancy journey. Please contact us or schedule an appointment to learn what we can do to help you or, if you do not have a doctor, to receive referral information for an OBGYN.