What causes brownish vaginal discharge and a fishy, spicy sensation in the throat during pregnancy?

Generally, brownish vaginal discharge and a metallic or spicy sensation in the throat during pregnancy may result from severe morning sickness damaging the esophagus, dietary irritation, reflux esophagitis, chronic gastritis, or gastric ulcers. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Severe Morning Sickness Causing Esophageal Damage: Frequent and intense vomiting in early pregnancy can cause stomach acid to irritate and damage the esophageal lining, leading to bleeding. Oxidized blood appears brownish. Eat small, frequent meals and choose mild foods such as soda crackers and millet porridge. Rinse your mouth with warm water after vomiting to reduce esophageal irritation.

2. Dietary Irritation During Pregnancy: Consuming spicy or excessively hot foods can irritate the gastrointestinal tract and esophageal mucosa, causing discomfort and minor bleeding. Immediately adjust your diet by avoiding spicy and scalding foods. Focus on light, soft, liquid, or semi-liquid foods and drink plenty of warm water.

3. Reflux Esophagitis: Hormonal changes during pregnancy relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to reflux and burn the mucosal lining. Avoid lying down immediately after meals and refrain from eating at least two hours before bedtime. Follow your doctor’s instructions when using medications such as hydrotalcite chewable tablets, compound aluminum hydroxide tablets, or vitamin B6 tablets.

4. Chronic Gastritis: During pregnancy, increased blood flow and swelling of the gastric mucosa may worsen inflammation, leading to mucosal damage and bleeding. Maintain regular, moderate meal portions and avoid overeating. Take medications such as omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, rabeprazole sodium enteric-coated tablets, or sucralfate suspension as directed by your physician.

5. Gastric Ulcer: An ulcerated area in the stomach lining may bleed when irritated, resulting in brownish vomit. Hospital observation may be required. Follow medical advice when taking medications such as bismuth potassium citrate capsules, colloidal bismuth pectin capsules, or lansoprazole enteric-coated tablets to protect the ulcer site and promote healing.

Maintain a positive mood daily, as anxiety can worsen nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Ensure adequate sleep to reduce physical strain. Attend regular prenatal checkups, promptly report any bodily changes to your healthcare provider, and safeguard the health and well-being of both mother and baby.