Brown spotting is usually old blood leaving the body, but when it appears unexpectedly, it may raise concerns. While occasional brown spotting between periods can be normal, persistent or abnormal spotting might indicate hormonal imbalances, ovulation spotting, implantation bleeding, or even underlying health issues such as infections, polyps, or conditions like PCOS or endometriosis. It can also be a side effect of birth control or stress-related changes in the body. Abnormal Brown spotting can be a sign of certain diseases that should get special medical attention. In this article, we explore what abnormal brown spotting may mean and when to consult a healthcare provider.
1. Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Unpleasantly smelling brown spots can be a sign of venereal disease transmitted through uncivil sex. For example, chlamydia or gonorrhoea. Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are infections spread through sexual contact, including vaginal, oral, and anal sex. They are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites and can lead to serious health complications if untreated. Common STDs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, HIV/AIDS, and HPV.
Symptoms Of STD:
i). Burning sensation and pain during urination as well as during sex
ii). Vagina feels very itchy
iii). Hip pain
iv). Abnormal vaginal discharge.
2. Pelvic Inflammatory Diseases
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of a woman’s reproductive organs, such as the uterus, cervix (cervix), ovaries (ovaries), or fallopian tubes.
The disease is caused by bacteria transmitted through condomless sexual intercourse.
Symptoms Of Pelvic Inflammatory Diseases:
i). Smelly brownish blood spots
ii). Pain during sex
iii). Abnormal vaginal discharge
iv). Burning sensation when urinating
v). Severe pain in the pelvis and around the lower abdomen
vi). Have a fever to chills when the infection is already severe
Pelvic inflammatory disease is one that can make women infertile. However, the disease can also be cured if given the right treatment.
3. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
PCOS is a disease that occurs due to an imbalance of androgen hormones in the body. This condition makes the menstrual cycle so irregular that it often triggers the abnormal brown spotting between menstrual periods.
Symptoms Of PCOS:
i). Growing hair on the face and chest
ii). Prone to breakouts
iii). Overweight
iv). Pain in the hips
v). Messy menstrual cycle or even no menstruation at all
vi). Menstruation tends to be long and painful
There are many treatment options to help balance hormones in the body. Drugs containing the hormones estrogen and progesterone are usually the drug of choice for women with PCOS.
4. Cervical Cancer
In rare cases, the presence of brown spots before menstruation can indicate cervical cancer. Without medical treatment, cervical cancer can cause a variety of fatal complications, even death.
Symptoms Of Cervical Cancer:
i). Pain during sex
ii). Longer and more severe menstruation
iii). Changes in the schedule of bowels
iv). Severe pelvic pain
v). Drastically reduced weight
vi). Pain without cause.
It is immediately possible to check your health with a doctor to get the right diagnosis and treatment. Perhaps you should undergo some health tests to better ascertain the accurate cause.
When To Go To The Doctor?
Abnormal brown spotting can be normal, but you should know when this is a danger sign. Check with your doctor immediately if
i). It continues for several weeks
ii). Frequent after sex
iii). Brown spots have an unpleasant aroma
iv). Appearance of spots accompanied by pain or abdominal cramps
v). Spots accompanied by itching in the vagina.
Conclusion
In conclusion, abnormal brown spotting can be a result of various factors, ranging from harmless causes like ovulation, implantation, or hormonal fluctuations to more serious concerns such as infections, cervical polyps, or underlying health conditions. While occasional spotting is common and often no cause for alarm, persistent or recurrent spotting, especially when accompanied by pain, unusual odor, or other symptoms, warrants medical attention. Identifying the root cause early is essential for effective management and peace of mind. Maintaining regular gynecological check-ups and being aware of changes in your cycle can help ensure reproductive health. Always prioritize consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice and proper care.
