What Causes Brown Menstrual Blood?
Apr 15, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
Normal menstrual blood is typically dark red. If the menstrual blood appears brown, it indicates a relatively light flow that has accumulated in the vagina and oxidized as it is expelled with vaginal secretions, turning brown. If menstruation is confirmed, this brown coloration may result from endocrine imbalances—such as poor or absent ovulation—leading to insufficient progesterone levels, which impairs complete shedding of the endometrium, thereby causing brown-colored menstrual discharge.
Menstruation is a monthly visitor for every woman. Normal menstrual blood is bright red; however, some women notice brownish discharge during their periods. What causes brown menstrual blood?
What Causes Brown Menstrual Blood?
Normal menstrual blood is typically dark red. Brownish menstrual blood usually indicates a lighter flow—blood that has remained in the vagina for a longer time and oxidized before being expelled with vaginal secretions. If confirmed to be menstruation, brown discharge may result from endocrine imbalances causing poor or absent ovulation, leading to insufficient progesterone levels. This hormonal deficiency prevents complete shedding of the endometrium, resulting in brown-tinged menstrual flow.
If you have undergone uterine cavity procedures—such as abortion or dilation and curettage (D&C)—consider whether endometrial injury might be contributing to reduced menstrual flow and brown discoloration. If it remains unclear whether the brown discharge represents true menstruation—or if brownish vaginal discharge occurs outside of your expected period—you should visit a public hospital’s gynecology department for blood testing of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) to rule out pregnancy. Early pregnancy may involve minor subchorionic bleeding, which can also appear as brown vaginal spotting.
During menstruation, maintain proper hygiene of the genital area and change sanitary pads frequently. Keep your body warm, avoid cold or spicy foods, refrain from strenuous exercise, and avoid heavy physical labor—especially during the pandemic. Incorporate blood- and qi-nourishing foods into your diet and maintain a positive, relaxed mood. We hope this information proves helpful to you.
