Bruine afscheiding - Verloskundigen PuurBegin in Kampen

We understand that you may be worried about brown discharge during your pregnancy. That is why we at Verloskundigen PuurBegin are writing this blog to reassure you and provide you with the right information. You are not alone and together we can face this phase of your pregnancy with confidence.

Brown discharge, especially in the beginning of your pregnancy, is more common than you think. About 30% of pregnant women suffer from it, especially around the 5th or 6th week. The good news is that in most cases it is harmless. Let's take a look at what brown discharge exactly is, what the causes can be and when you should possibly sound the alarm.

Brown discharge is actually nothing more than a little bit of old blood mixing with your normal vaginal discharge. The color can vary from light brown to dark brown. It is important to know that the color brown indicates that the blood is already somewhat older.

Possible causes of brown discharge:

1. Implantation bleeding:

When a fertilized egg implants in the uterine wall, a small amount of bleeding can occur. This is called implantation bleeding. The blood loss is usually less than with a normal menstruation and often only lasts one to three days. This usually occurs around the time you would actually expect your period, up to about 6 to 7 weeks of pregnancy.

2. Well-perfused cervix:

During pregnancy, your cervix has a better blood supply. This makes it easier for small blood vessels to bleed, for example after giving birth. to play sports, coughing, sneezing, during a toilet visit or after sexual intercourse. This is usually harmless, but it can cause brown discharge.

3. Polyp on the cervix:

A polyp is a small, benign growth on the cervix. Due to increased pressure in the lower abdomen, for example when pushing, a polyp can bleed.

4. Infection:

In rare cases, an infection in the vagina can cause brown discharge. An infection always needs to be treated, so contact your midwife or GP if you think you have an infection.

5. No clear cause:

Sometimes there is no clear cause for the brown discharge. The blood loss will stop by itself. Some women simply bleed more easily than others.

When should you worry?

Although brown discharge is usually harmless, there are situations in which it is important to contact your midwife:

If the brown discharge persists for several days.
If you have bright red blood loss.
If you have severe abdominal pain.
If you are worried or anxious.

It is important to remember that it is not always possible to determine the cause of brown discharge. Sometimes it is just one of those things that comes with pregnancy. Try not to worry too much and trust your body if you are otherwise feeling well and have no abdominal pain. If you are still feeling worried, always contact your midwife. We are here to help and reassure you.

What can you do yourself?

There is not much you can do to prevent brown discharge. It is important to listen to your body and rest if you are not feeling well. Avoid heavy exertion and stress. Ensure good hygiene, but do not use soap in the vagina. This can disrupt the vaginal flora and cause irritation.

Brown discharge after 6 weeks of pregnancy

If you are still experiencing brown discharge after 6 weeks of pregnancy, a echo provide a definitive answer. An ultrasound can then show whether the baby's heart is beating and whether everything is going well. If a heartbeat can be seen, the chance of a miscarriage small.

Brown discharge and miscarriage

Unfortunately, brown discharge can sometimes also be a sign of an early miscarriage. It is important to know that a miscarriage cannot be prevented. It is a matter of waiting to see whether the bleeding continues or stops. If you have a lot of bleeding, bright red blood with clots, and severe abdominal pain, the chance of a miscarriage is greater. Little bleeding that stops quickly gives a smaller chance of a miscarriage.

Conclusion

Brown discharge during pregnancy can have several causes. Most of the time it is harmless and will disappear on its own. It can be caused by implantation bleeding, a well-perfused cervix or a polyp. In rare cases it can be a sign of an infection or the beginning of a miscarriage. If you have any concerns, always contact your midwife. We are here to help and reassure you. Remember that you are not alone and that together we can face this phase of your pregnancy with confidence.

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