Pregnancy exerts a great deal of strain on a woman’s body. As the pregnancy progresses, the baby continues to grow and this increases the pressure on the muscles, ligaments, joints and vital organs. There are many symptoms associated with pregnancy such as cramping, nausea and fatigue. Spotting is also a common pregnancy symptom. In many cases, discharge from the vagina increases during the pregnancy. This is a normal occurrence and not a cause for concern. The vaginal walls and cervix soften during pregnancy. The vaginal discharge increases so that infections are prevented from entering the womb through the vagina.
It may be worrisome to see a brown discharge during pregnancy. However this is a common occurrence and does not necessarily indicate that something is wrong. The vaginal discharge tends to vary in color and may range from reddish to brown. Brown discharge during pregnancy is normal as long as it is not too heavy. A heavy brown discharge during pregnancy along with the passage of tissue and clots may be indicative of a miscarriage.
There are many different reasons for normal brown discharge during pregnancy. In the pregnancy first trimester, some amount of discharge may occur as the body gets rid of old blood from the cervix. Brown spotting or discharge may also occur because the cervix becomes very tender and sensitive during pregnancy. Discharge may especially occur after sexual intercourse or after a vaginal sonogram. This can lead to slight tearing of the cervix and brown discharge may continue for 2 to 3 days. Dark brown spotting in early pregnancy may be the result of implantation bleeding. This occurs when a fertilized egg implants itself into the uterine lining. Such spotting may be either light or dark. Brown discharge during pregnancy may also occur due to genital HPV. This condition may arise because of elevated estrogen production and increased flow to the vaginal area. Infections that affect the cervix or vagina may sometimes lead to symptoms such as itching, burning and discharge. A more serious cause of brown discharge during pregnancy is a molar pregnancy. This occurs when the embryo is unable to develop properly due to abnormalities of the placenta. Dark brown discharge in late pregnancy may be indicative of labor. It is advisable to report any kind of spotting or bleeding to your doctor so that complications may be ruled out. Also, if severe cramping or vomiting accompanies the discharge, immediate medical attention is necessary.
Read more articles from the During Pregnancy Category.
Games to play with your kids
Tackle Labor Anxieties
On Second Thoughts
Inspirations for Baby Room Decor