periods brown: what do these brown losses mean?
Have you ever experienced brown blood loss during your periods and wondered if this is normal? We answer all your questions and explain the possible causes of this color.
What causes brown periods ?
periods are caused by a perfectly natural phenomenon: oxidation. If blood is slow to flow, it comes into contact with air, which oxidizes the iron present in the discharge. The result? The blood becomes tinted, giving it a brown color that can be surprising if you're not used to it. So, if you're wondering whether brown discharge is really periods, the answer is "yes", it's just due to a change in the color of periods.
How do you explain the brown color of periods ?
There can be several reasons for this color change at periods. Let's take a look at the main ones.
First and last days of the periods
At the beginning and end of the periods, the flow is less abundant. As a result, the blood takes longer to flow out. It can then stagnate in the vagina, where it will take on a brown color due to oxidation. A small amount of periods can also be brown, as it mixes with vaginal discharge and becomes more brown than the bright red we're used to.
Onset of puberty or menopause
At these times, hormones can play tricks on our bodies. When the first periods occur, they are rarely regular. As a result, the flow can vary greatly, and be very sparse in some cycles. periods are not uncommon. During the menopause, hormone levels in the body fluctuate enormously and have an impact on periods. They become very irregular, sometimes very abundant, then very light. Hot flushes often accompany these flow variations.
Use of unsuitable contraceptives
Another factor that can play a role in causing brown blood loss at periods is poor contraception. Hormones are also released by contraception, and if it's not adapted, the level will be too low or too high, disrupting periods. Forgetting to use contraception can have the same effect. Slight bleeding may occur, and the bleeding will take on a brownish hue.
Should s'worry about brown losses outside periods ?
If you experience no other symptoms, there's no need to worry. Menstrual cycles can change over the course of a woman's life, and flows can vary. To protect yourself during these dark periods, use external protection. In particular, you can use our Elia panties, which sare perfectly suited to this situation.
Is it normal to have brown discharge during pregnancy?
This can happen during the first three months of pregnancy. The brown periods can come from old blood that has not had time to s'drain. This is known as " periods anniversaries". Any bleeding during pregnancy is, however, something to watch out for. It's best to talk to a doctor to get his or her opinion and s'make sure everything's okay.
Are brown periods smelly or painful?
Not normally. periods are supposed to be accompanied by the same symptoms as the classic periods . Pain can therefore be experienced, but it must be similar to that experienced during the rest of the cycle. These are caused by the contraction of the uterus to expel the blood present. Unpleasant odours are particularly important to watch out for, as they may indicate an infection such as mycosis. As a general rule, if periods is associated with other symptoms, or if discharge occurs outside the menstrual cycle, it is advisable to consult a health professional.
Although they can be surprising, brown periods are normal. They are caused by oxidation of the blood, which changes color. However, if you notice any other symptoms, or if this discharge occurs outside your menstrual cycle, you should consult your doctor to make sure everything's okay.
FAQ periods brown
Are brown losses periods ?
Yes. At the beginning and end of the menstrual cycle, discharge is less abundant and can s'oxidize. It then takes on a brownish hue.
Why are my periods brown and not very abundant?
This is often the case at the beginning and end of periods. It can also happen when you start to settle down, or at the time of menopause.
When does brown discharge occur?
They can occur at various times. At the beginning and end of the periods, when the flow is less abundant. The flow may also be lighter during the menopause. Unsuitable contraception may also be to blame.
Are brown periods a sign of pregnancy?
Yes, it's possible. During the first three months, small bleeding may occur, known as " periods anniversary". This is nothing to worry about, but it's worth keeping an eye on.
Are brown periods a sign of miscarriage?
Sometimes yes. A miscarriage usually manifests itself as blood loss. Depending on the extent of the flow, the blood may oxidize and turn brown instead of bright red.
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