Causes of white discharge a few days before menstruation

May 11, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Lv Aiming

Introduction

A few days before menstruation, due to changes in hormone levels in the body, progesterone stimulates vascular proliferation in the endometrium, causing congestion of the vaginal and cervical mucosa, leading to increased vaginal discharge. Vaginal infection occurs when pathogenic bacteria invade the vagina, resulting in imbalance of the vaginal flora. Additionally, chronic local inflammation of the cervix increases the shedding of cervical and vaginal wall cells, causing the aforementioned symptoms.

Leukorrhea appearing a few days before menstruation may be caused by physiological factors or pathological conditions such as vaginitis and cervicitis. The specific analysis is as follows:

I. Physiological Causes

In the days preceding menstruation, changes in hormone levels—particularly increased progesterone—stimulate blood vessel proliferation in the endometrium and cause congestion of the vaginal and cervical mucosa, leading to increased vaginal discharge. This is considered a normal physiological phenomenon.

II. Pathological Causes

1. Vaginitis

Before menstruation, immune resistance may decrease. If pathogenic bacteria invade the vagina, they can disrupt the normal vaginal flora, resulting in leukorrhea. This is often accompanied by changes in discharge color, odor, itching, or discomfort. Treatment under medical guidance may include medications such as metronidazole suppositories, tinidazole suppositories, or nystatin suppositories.

2. Cervicitis

Chronic inflammation in the cervix can stimulate local cells, increasing shedding of cervical and vaginal wall cells, which leads to increased discharge. Symptoms may also include abdominal pain, bloody discharge, and foul odor. Medications prescribed by a physician may include Kangongyan tablets, Xiaomi suppositories, or Baofukang suppositories.

Besides the above causes, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometritis, or adnexitis could also be responsible. It is important to maintain good hygiene, and individuals experiencing any abnormal symptoms should promptly seek gynecological evaluation and treatment.

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Does vaginal discharge increase before menstruation?

Vaginal discharge increases before menstruation. During menstruation, pelvic congestion occurs in women; therefore, vaginal discharge tends to increase before the onset of menses. If pelvic congestion worsens, blood flow to the cervix and vagina increases, leading to greater vaginal discharge. Increased premenstrual discharge is generally a normal physiological phenomenon and does not warrant excessive concern. In most cases, no medical evaluation is necessary. Additionally, vaginal discharge typically increases before menstruation.

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Brownish vaginal discharge before menstruation

Brownish vaginal discharge before menstruation is likely due to a small amount of blood mixed in the discharge. This may result from non-pathological factors such as ovulation, or be caused by conditions like cervical polyps, cervicitis, or bacterial vaginosis. Treatment options—including general management and medication—should be selected based on the specific underlying cause. In daily life, it's important to monitor changes in the menstrual cycle, wash the genital area with warm water regularly, and frequently change and clean underwear.