Vaginal bleeding and discharge can range in a variety of ways from color to consistency to smell, among other characteristics. Some instances of bleeding and/or discharge are completely normal, while others may be cause for concern depending on their aspects as well as any concurrent symptoms.
Vaginal Bleeding
Menstruation is the most common cause of vaginal bleeding. During one’s period, the blood can vary in multiple ways, primarily in its color. Dark red or brown blood is not uncommon and can typically happen around the end of your period. This means that the blood is taking longer to exit the uterus and has started to oxidize. Bright red blood often signifies fresh blood that is exiting your body more quickly. Blood that is more pink in color could be a lighter flow that has mixed with cervical fluid or could possibly indicate low estrogen levels. Blood clots are also common during the heavier days of menstruation, although clots that are about the size of a quarter or larger might signify an underlying condition. This is also the case for very heavy menstrual bleeding, also referred to as menorrhagia. Bleeding is considered heavy if you are bleeding consistently for more than seven days or if you need to repeatedly change your pad, tampon, etc. every two hours or less. However, everyone experiences different levels of menstrual bleeding and some may naturally have a heavier flow. If you believe your flow is unusually heavy or prolonged, reach out to your doctor.
Another type of vaginal bleeding is post-coital bleeding, or bleeding after sex. Individuals can sometimes experience bleeding after penetrative sex, particularly if there is not enough lubrication or if the intercourse was especially vigorous. Other times, bleeding after sex can have underlying causes such as cervical polyps, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), or other sexually transmitted infections. If bleeding happens frequently after intercourse, especially if there are also symptoms such as vaginal burning, painful intercourse, or abdominal pain, you can reach out to your provider and arrange a screening. Individuals in their early 20’s can arrange a Pap smear which can test for HPV, Chlamydia, and Gonorrhea. Even if not sexually active, getting a Pap is a good idea because it screens for cervical cancer. If the results are normal, you generally do not need to get a Pap for another three years.
Individuals can also experience breakthrough bleeding (bleeding between periods) from the use of hormonal or emergency contraceptives. Hormonal contraception such as an IUD or birth control pills can cause breakthrough bleeding during the first three months of use. If the bleeding is very heavy and/or lasts for more than three months, it is a good idea to talk to your doctor. Birth control pills can also cause breakthrough bleeding if you miss a pill or multiple pills in a row. Breakthrough bleeding can also be related to pregnancy and is often referred to as implantation bleeding. This is a light spotting which occurs within the first couple weeks of conception.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis are also two conditions that may cause vaginal bleeding. PCOS is a condition that causes the ovaries to produce abnormal amounts of a male sex hormone that is typically found in small doses in those who menstruate. This condition can present itself in a variety of ways, some of them being through multiple small cysts on the ovaries, as well as irregular or missed periods. Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus grows on the outside of the uterine cavity and potentially on other surrounding organs in the pelvic region. This condition can cause very painful cramps or heavy bleeding during periods, as well as pain during intercourse. It is important to see a doctor if you experience these symptoms or any symptoms that appear abnormal to you.
Vaginal Discharge
Vaginal discharge is a fluid released from small glands inside the vagina and cervix. It is a very normal and consistent occurrence among those who menstruate and some of its primary functions are keeping the vagina clean by removing old cells and bacteria, providing lubrication, and fighting infection/irritation. The consistency, color, smell, and amount of discharge can vary among individuals. Individuals will typically experience more discharge during ovulation, breastfeeding, or when sexually aroused.
Normal vaginal discharge can range from a clear color to a more milky, white appearance. White discharge can be normal but can also potentially be a sign of a yeast infection if it has a cottage cheese consistency and/or a strong smell. Yeast infections can also be accompanied by itching or irritation. Red discharge is primarily the result of bleeding during menstruation. The shade of red will often vary depending on whether it is the beginning or end of the menstrual cycle. This is common during menstruation but if an individual notices red discharge between periods, they may want to contact their doctor.
Discharge with a lighter shade of yellow can usually be considered normal, but darker shades of yellow or green discharge may be a sign of a sexually transmitted infection. For example, gonorrhea will typically cause a dark yellow or green discharge. Gray discharge can be a sign of bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common infection caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina. This can also have symptoms such as itching, burning, or pain in the vagina. Any of these symptoms should be checked by one’s doctor to figure out potential treatment options. If your discharge appears to be abnormal or has an unusual odor or color, reach out to your provider as well, especially if the discharge is followed by other symptoms such as pain, burning, irritation, or anything that may seem unusual for you.
Some tips to avoid vaginal infections include washing the vaginal area with a mild, unscented soap and removing any wet clothing as soon as possible. It is also important to wipe from front to back to avoid spreading bacteria into the vaginal area. Fragranced soaps and bacteria are some of the things that can impact the natural pH levels of the vagina and lead to infections.
Every individual experiences a multitude of differences in types of bleeding and discharge throughout the course of their life. If you notice anything that appears unusual to what you are used to seeing, check with your doctor to be safe, especially if you have any of the corresponding symptoms.
photo credit: https://www.istockphoto.com/photos/bloody-pad
Comments