Pregnant pink spotting

Pinkish-Brown Discharge: Typical During Pregnancy?

Medically reviewed by Stacy A. Henigsman, DO — By Chaunie Brusie — Updated on June 6, 2022

Pinkish-brown discharge during pregnancy could mean a number of different things. Some of the most common reasons for this — such as implantation bleeding or cervical irritation — are not causes for concern.

Experiencing bleeding at any point during pregnancy can be scary. But keep in mind: There are times when finding discharge that resembles blood is a typical part of pregnancy.

But what about pinkish-brown discharge? Is this dangerous for you or your fetus?

Here are six possible reasons you might be experiencing pinkish-brown discharge during pregnancy.

Implantation bleeding

If you’re very early on in your pregnancy and actively looking for symptoms, you may notice some light spotting around week 4.

This can be implantation bleeding, or the bleeding that occurs when the fertilized embryo burrows into the highly vascular lining of your uterus.

Cervical irritation

During pregnancy, your cervix, which is the bottom of your uterus and the part that opens and stretches during labor, is highly vascular. This means it has a lot of blood vessels, so it can bleed easily.

If your cervix is irritated during pregnancy, it may cause some brownish-pink discharge. This can happen at any point during your pregnancy. It may be caused by sex, a cervical check by your doctor, or an infection.

Ectopic pregnancy

In rare cases, brownish-pink discharge can be caused by an ectopic pregnancy. This is when a pregnancy occurs outside of the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tube.

The brownish color occurs because the bleeding is older blood, not bright red (new) blood. An ectopic pregnancy is a life-threatening emergency.

Go to the emergency room if you notice bleeding along with any of these symptoms:

extreme dizziness
shoulder pain
fainting
lightheadedness
abdominal or pelvic pain that comes and goes, especially on one side

Miscarriage

Any bleeding during pregnancy can be an early sign of miscarriage. In general, bleeding that results in a miscarriage is also accompanied by other symptoms.

If you notice brownish-pink discharge, be on the lookout for other symptoms, including:

cramping
increased bright red bleeding
gush of fluid or watery discharge
abdominal pain
lower back pain

Unknown reasons

Many times, there’s no obvious reason for bleeding during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. A 2019 study found that as many as one-fourth of women reported some kind of bleeding during the first few months of pregnancy. Although researchers speculated that the bleeding was an early sign of the placenta not developing properly, they aren’t sure of all of the reasons bleeding can happen.

Call your doctor if you experience other symptoms, or if you’re concerned.

Mucus plug

You may be losing your mucus plug if you’re further along in your pregnancy, (anywhere from 36 to 40 weeks) and notice an increase in discharge that’s brownish, pink, or even slightly green-tinged.

As your body gets ready to go into labor, it’s common for your cervix to soften and release the mucus plug. This plug helps protect any bacteria from getting into your uterus.

The mucus plug can look like, well, mucous. But it may also be tinged with brown-colored discharge when it dislodges. You may notice the mucus plug come out all at once. Or it may dislodge in smaller, less noticeable “chunks” over the course of a few days or weeks.

If you notice a small amount of pinkish-brown discharge during your pregnancy, don’t panic. In most cases, a small amount of blood-tinged discharge is typical.

Consider if there could be any possible reasons for the discharge:

Were you checked by your doctor recently?
Did you have sex in the last 24 hours?
Are you nearing the end of your pregnancy and might be losing your mucus plug?

If the discharge increases, or if you experience any bleeding with other symptoms, call your doctor or head to the hospital.

Q:

When should you call your doctor if you’re bleeding during pregnancy?

Anonymous patient

A:

Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy, particularly during the first trimester, is common. But you should always call your doctor if you notice bleeding, because the cause could potentially be serious. You’ll want to make note of how much you’re bleeding and whether or not it’s painful.

Your doctor may want to evaluate you in person and determine whether you need further testing. You should head straight to the emergency room if you’re seeing a significant amount of blood (passing clots or soaking through your clothes).

University of Illinois-Chicago, College of MedicineAnswers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.

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Last medically reviewed on June 6, 2022

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How we reviewed this article:

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Dugas C, et al. (2022). Miscarriage.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532992/
Hendriks E, et al. (2020). Ectopic pregnancy: Diagnosis and management.
aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2020/0515/p599.html
Hendriks E, et al. (2019). First trimester bleeding: Evaluation and management.
aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2019/0201/p166.html
Jeanmonod R, et al. (2022). Vaginal bleeding.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470230/

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Medically reviewed by Stacy A. Henigsman, DO — By Chaunie Brusie — Updated on June 6, 2022

Spotting During Early Pregnancy: Is it Normal?

The early days and weeks of your pregnancy are exciting times, and it's normal to have a million questions, especially if your body starts doing some unexpected things. One of the strange things you might notice is vaginal spotting. Read on to learn more about what can cause it, and what other types of vaginal bleeding can occur in early pregnancy.

What Is Spotting and What Causes It?

Generally speaking, spotting refers to the light vaginal bleeding that can sometimes occur between periods. However, it can also occur during early pregnancy. Although the sight of blood early in your pregnancy can be unnerving (leading you to wonder “Is this spotting normal?”), it's helpful to know that this is quite common and doesn't usually mean there's a problem.

As many as one quarter of moms-to-be experience some spotting during early pregnancy. Two common causes are described here.

Bleeding From the Cervix

One possible reason for spotting during pregnancy is that your body is now pumping almost 50 percent more blood. With more blood vessels forming in your pelvic region, your cervix may bleed more easily. You may be more likely to experience this kind of very light bleeding after sex, a pelvic exam, or a Pap test.

Implantation Bleeding

Another common cause of light spotting in early pregnancy is implantation bleeding. This happens when the fertilized egg implants itself into the lining of your uterus, causing some drops of blood. In terms of timing, implantation bleeding usually happens about one or two weeks after fertilization.

It can be easy to mistake implantation bleeding for a light period, but this type of spotting is in fact an early sign of pregnancy. Implantation bleeding might also be lighter in color than what you normally see during your period, and it only lasts a day or two.

If you think you might be experiencing implantation bleeding, read up on some other symptoms of early pregnancy to see if you recognize any and consult your healthcare provider.

Symptoms and Characteristics of Spotting

Light spotting can be a normal part of early pregnancy. It might even be so light that it's only noticeable on toilet tissue after you wipe, or you might see a few drops on your panties. It usually lasts about a day, and is usually light in color. Most of the time it's lighter in color than your normal menstrual flow, though, sometimes, it can be red or brown in color. It is often painless.

Although spotting is usually nothing to worry about, it's important to report any bleeding to your healthcare provider just to make sure all is well.

Other Types of Vaginal Bleeding During Pregnancy

If you experience vaginal bleeding during what you think is early pregnancy, it could simply be that it is your period and you are not actually pregnant. Sometimes, it can be tough to tell the difference between the light spotting associated with early pregnancy and a light period. Remember, menstrual bleeding can come with abdominal cramps and may appear as a dark red or brownish discharge, as opposed to spotting, which is often painless and light pink in color.

During early pregnancy, there are times when light spotting or heavier bleeding can be a warning sign you should not ignore. That's why it's always safest to mention any bleeding to your healthcare provider, especially if it's a heavy flow.

Heavy bleeding during early pregnancy can sometimes be caused by:

Early pregnancy loss. Losing a pregnancy in the first 13 weeks is known as an early pregnancy loss or miscarriage, and it can happen in as many as 1 in 10 pregnancies. You may experience some cramping along with bleeding, so always let your healthcare provider know if you have bleeding, either with or without cramping.
Ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy happens when the fertilized egg doesn't make it all the way to the uterus, and instead implants itself somewhere else, usually in one of the fallopian tubes. An ectopic pregnancy cannot progress. As the fertilized egg grows, the fallopian tube can rupture, leading to bleeding. An ectopic pregnancy can also cause abdominal or pelvic pain, so if you notice these symptoms along with any bleeding, let your provider know right away.
Infection. A cervical infection or cervical inflammation can also cause bleeding in the first trimester. Your healthcare provider will be able to diagnose and treat any cervical issues causing the bleeding.

During early pregnancy, a little light spotting might seem scary. It's reassuring to know that it's often normal and nothing to worry about, but your healthcare provider will be able to completely put your mind at ease.

In the meantime, you can download our go-to Pregnancy Guide that's full of information about pregnancy health, nutrition, fitness, and more.

reasons why and what to do

During pregnancy, a woman's body transforms, adapting to carrying a baby and preparing for the upcoming birth. Many expectant mothers are concerned about changes in vaginal discharge: their volume and color may change alert.

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Article checked by an expert, obstetrician-gynecologist

Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment. nine0003

Marina Alexandrovna Boyko

obstetrician-gynecologist, member of ISSVD (International Society for Vulvovaginal Diseases) and ASEG (Association of Specialists in Aesthetic Gynecology), Clinic "ART-ECO"

During pregnancy, life is filled with new meaning and sensations. In addition to a high emotional load, a woman experiences serious physical transformations - from hormonal to metabolic processes. The body adapts to new conditions, responding to them with certain reactions. He may continue to secrete a secret of a different nature and color. Therefore, it is important to monitor what is happening and not ignore the development of an unfavorable situation. We will tell you in detail what discharge during pregnancy occurs in the early and late stages. nine0003

Why discharge occurs during pregnancy

By itself, discharge from the genital tract in women is normal. They are necessary to moisturize the vaginal wall and protect the genitals from infectious agents. Naturally, physiologically normal discharges are not accompanied by sensations such as pain, burning, and do not lead to redness and swelling of the skin and mucous membrane of the external genital organs. Their abundance is affected by the following indicators:

the phase of the cycle, when after menstruation they become less, and during the period of ovulation more
the presence of infections and inflammation, including in the pelvic organs
sexual contacts, their frequency and the use of contraceptives
wearing synthetic underwear

Many women note that during pregnancy, the discharge changes even before the delay of menstruation. So the body gradually adapts to a new state. The fact is that in the first time after conception, a serious hormonal restructuring occurs. The role of the hormone progesterone as a regulator of pregnancy increases significantly, as does the level of estrogen. The reproductive organs begin to function in an enhanced mode, so the discharge may be unusual and vary depending on the trimester. nine0003

For example, in the early stages, up to 12 weeks, atypical discharge occurs in three out of ten pregnant women. They are different in color - from transparent to dark brown and in consistency - viscous or liquid. In most cases, we are talking about natural changes in the body, although not always. What discharge is considered normal during pregnancy:

white or transparent
without a sharp and unpleasant odor
within the allowed volume (2-3 ml or about a teaspoon)
without itching, pulling pain in the lower abdomen, burning

When the first or second week of pregnancy goes, the embryo attaches to the wall of the uterus, growing into the endometrium, contacting the mother's body, so there may be light brown discharge. They are observed within a few hours or a couple of days. They can become thicker, but not necessarily, and this is also considered the norm.

Types of discharge during pregnancy and their differences

The mucous plug on the cervix, necessary to protect against the penetration of germs, appears due to progesterone. And more liquid, often viscous discharge during pregnancy becomes due to the influence of estrogen. nine0003

White discharge

Uniform density, matte white, without foreign smell and any clots of discharge are often noticeable throughout the entire period of gestation. If itching and burning join the white discharge during pregnancy, and they themselves become like thick kefir, this may already be a thrush. Vaginal candidiasis often accompanies women in position. The acidity of the vagina changes and it becomes sensitive to fungal microorganisms. nine0003

Fungi of the genus Candida are found in small numbers even in healthy women. As soon as the immune system weakens, they begin to multiply actively and cause unpleasant symptoms. The mucous membrane turns red, the itching intensifies, especially after a shower, and there is a burning sensation when urinating. It is impossible to take medications on your own, including vaginal ones, or douching. You need to talk about these signs to the doctor who will prescribe the treatment. If light discharge during pregnancy does not bother you, you do not need to deal with them. nine0003

Brown discharge

Colored mucus most often causes concern among expectant mothers, immediately there is a feeling that something has gone wrong. Brown discharge during pregnancy is not always dangerous during pregnancy. First of all, they mean the presence of an admixture of a very small amount of blood. As a rule, they are scarce and stop fairly quickly.

In early pregnancy, brown discharge is acceptable on the days when menstruation is due. Women often see them even before the delay - this is a mixture of cervical mucus and old blood with destroyed red blood cells. If a daily pad is enough for several hours, then they are considered moderately plentiful. If the "daub" persists for more than two days, you must consult a doctor. nine0003

Normally, the expectant mother sees them only in the first month after conception. At other times they should not be. Also, the pungent smell of brown mucus indicates the presence of an infection and a gynecologist's consultation is required.

Yellow discharge

If a woman had light yellow discharge before pregnancy, it may also appear during pregnancy. They also occur due to desquamation of the epithelial cells lining the vagina. The beige shade is manifested due to the destruction of red blood cells that are in the vagina after washing, sexual contact, and the use of suppositories. It is better to see a doctor when such a secret is noted for more than a day. nine0003

What should alert you is a rich bright color - almost orange, typical for the development of venereal diseases. Yellow-green bubbling mucus occurs with inflammation provoked by Trichomonas. In addition, it may be a symptom of dysbacteriosis with the growth of opportunistic microorganisms. Again, with itching, burning, fever, frequent urination, pain in the genital area, you should urgently contact a gynecologist. A consultation will not hurt even in the presence of yellow discharge without other symptoms - only a doctor can determine their potential danger. nine0003

Pink discharge

Scanty, with small streaks of blood, pink discharge during pregnancy is quite common. They are associated with the stage of implantation of the ovum about a week after conception. During this period, there may not yet be a delay. Also, at an early stage, the body produces the amount of hormones corresponding to the first phase of the monthly cycle. Implantation secretions are noticeable even three weeks after fertilization. It is important to remember, as we mentioned above, that a meager and short (several hours) secret is considered the norm. nine0003

In general, if the pregnancy is between two and twelve weeks, pink discharge without other indicators (pain, itching, etc. ) is not dangerous. They say that fertilization was successful. The transition to a reddish and even more so burgundy shade already poses a threat of termination of pregnancy, including when there are pulling pains in the lumbar region. This is a must-see.

Bloody discharge

It is important to consider how much blood is being shed. Not too voluminous spotting during pregnancy sometimes appears due to the implantation of the embryo to the uterine wall. As we have already said, you should not be afraid of them. But there are more serious reasons why expectant mothers notice traces of fresh blood on underwear or pads. nine0003

Spotting may occur in the first half of pregnancy until 22 weeks. Then they may result in the following pathologies:

Premature detachment of the fetal egg
Ectopic pregnancy
Self -productive abortion
Unsupported pregnancy
During sexual intercourse

, if we are talking about later, then the causes discharge become trauma to the polyp, cervical erosion, premature detachment of the placenta and premature birth. Allocations, very similar to menstruation, require special attention during pregnancy, it doesn’t matter if there are a lot of them or a little. You need to urgently contact a gynecologist who will issue a referral for an ultrasound scan. nine0003

Discharge at different stages of pregnancy

What is considered normal in the first weeks after conception is not always acceptable in subsequent trimesters. Let's talk about at what stage of pregnancy the discharge reflects the problem and requires special medical control.

First trimester discharge

In some women (about 15%), spotting occurs about a week after fertilization. This is 18-22 days from the date of the beginning of the last menstruation. At this stage, the secret may be pale pink and brown. If a woman notices such slight discharge in the early stages of pregnancy, perhaps even before a delay, nothing bad happens in the body. Of course, if we are talking about two or three drops of vaginal fluid. nine0003

As we have already described, at this time the embryo is introduced into the uterine tissue: in the process of embryo implantation, damage to small vessels occurs. Hence a few stains on the linen. Note that some women mistakenly take discharge for signs of pregnancy. Yes, they can indirectly report it, but the test indicators, hCG analysis, and ultrasound results are more accurate.

Also in the 1st trimester, brown discharge may disappear and reappear, because sometimes there is not enough progesterone and there is a threat of termination of pregnancy. In general, hormonal changes are often accompanied by white or yellow secretions. Abundant spotting and the presence of other symptoms - itching, pain, change in smell, and so on should alert. nine0003

Discharge in the second trimester

Due to the increase in estrogen activity, the discharge becomes less viscous and more abundant. The liquid white secret continues to protect the vagina from germs, but only if it is free of inclusions and an unpleasant odor. Such discharge during pregnancy is considered normal in the 2nd trimester. But the abundant and frequent brown "daub", noticed in the period from 14 to 28 weeks, is already the result of the development of pathologies in the development of the fetus, placental abruption or cervical injury. In the next few hours, the woman will need qualified help. nine0003

Bloody discharge during pregnancy in this trimester is the result of different states:

Low attachment of the placenta
Placenta detachment
Bubble skidd, when the embryo does not develop, and the choriona grows into bubbles with a liquid of
The intrauterine death of the embryo

If the secretion lasts longer than two days, looks copious, is accompanied by pain, no need to wait. It is urgent to contact a specialist. nine0003

Discharge in the third trimester

The closer to the final, the more abundant the vaginal discharge becomes. Moderate yellow or white discharge in the later stages rarely speaks of pathology. At the same time, they may indicate that the mucous plug is moving away, amniotic fluid is leaking, the fetal head is pressed against the cervix. Bloody discharge during pregnancy at the onset of the 3rd trimester may also indicate this. This happens after an examination by a gynecologist, when the uterus was greatly disturbed. The most harmless indicator is the natural removal of the mucous plug, which means that in a few days labor will begin. nine0003

Unfortunately, there are also dangerous causes of bloody secretions: placental abruption and placenta previa. Also, yellow discharge without impurities is considered harmless. But they also talk about leakage of amniotic fluid in the third trimester, which poses a threat to the child until the 37th week, when he is considered premature. It is also possible infection of the amniotic fluid or the inner membranes of the fetus. In this case, the temperature rises, and an excess of the number of leukocytes is noticeable in the smear.

What discharge during pregnancy is dangerous

Based on the foregoing, it is rather difficult to meet pregnancy without discharge. They are needed to protect the genital organs from external influences, and also serve as an additional signal demonstrating the presence of pathology. We will tell you when you need to contact a gynecologist without delay.

Abundant bloody may indicate uterine bleeding and injury to the vaginal mucosa.
Curds with a sour smell, burning and itching indicate the development of thrush. nine0038
Bright red secretion accompanied by nausea, edema, vomiting, hypertension may indicate a hydatidiform mole - urgently see a doctor!
Lack of growth of hCG in the blood, bloody discharge, drop in blood pressure, weakness, pulling pains in the lower abdomen - symptoms of ectopic attachment.
Abundant clots, sharp pains along with vomiting and diarrhea are sometimes noted in miscarriages.
Yellow-green discharge with a putrid odor indicates the manifestation of an infectious disease. nine0038

By the way, with a plentiful secret, it is permissible to use only gaskets. Tampons can harm the fetus and cause infection. You should not wait a week during pregnancy, when the discharge will pass by itself, studying the explanations of their causes on the forums. Not a single doctor will say that the expectant mother is worried in vain if she doubts the nature of the discharge. It is better to see a specialist once again to make sure that everything is in order with health and nothing threatens the baby.

Photo: Rodnae Productions, Mart Production, Leah Kelley: Pexels

why they appear in the early and late periods, in the 1st, 2nd and 3rd trimesters, what to do at home

A pregnant woman has been trying to listen to herself and her condition for all 9 months. Colossal changes are taking place in the body of the expectant mother - and this is normal.

Pink discharge can be encountered at different stages of pregnancy. We understand when they are considered the norm, and when - a deviation.

Why does pink discharge appear during early pregnancy

Pink discharge in early pregnancy is usually not threatening (1). If a woman does not feel any other signs of discomfort (itching, burning, urination disorders), then everything is normal. Pink discharge indicates that fertilization was successful. If such a problem appeared at the moment when your menstruation should begin, you should not be scared either. Most often, such pink vaginal discharge passes quickly and painlessly.

On the 25-28th day from the beginning of the last menstruation, such discharge indicates hormonal activity during a missed menstrual cycle (2).

Do not worry if a woman faced this problem from 2 to 12 weeks of pregnancy. Pink discharge passes quickly and does not pose a threat. But if they drag on, have a reddish or burgundy hue, if there are pulling pains in the lower abdomen or lower back, then you urgently need to see a doctor.

2 trimester

After the 12th week of pregnancy, a woman can relax a little, as the chances of losing the fetus are significantly reduced. The hormonal background is stabilizing. However, if from 12 to 27 weeks, the expectant mother notices pinkish or even brown discharge, this is a reason to see a doctor. In the second trimester, such discharges are dangerous, they can talk either about polyps (benign growths from the amniotic membranes), or about placental abruption.

Why does pink discharge occur during late pregnancy

The last months of pregnancy are an important stage. The body prepares for the birth of a child, hormonal reserves, muscle activity and secretory function are activated. And it is the last component that plays a huge role in the health of the expectant mother.

If she notices pink discharge in the last months of her pregnancy, she should consult her doctor. After all, pink vaginal discharge is bloody streaks that somehow stain the main mucous secretions. nine0003

Why pink tinge may appear late:

erosion;
placental abruption;
thrush;
beginning of labor activity.

IMPORTANT!

If you find yourself with erosion, then you do not need to plan any interventions and treatments before the birth of the child. During pregnancy, cauterization or the use of cryotherapy is not practiced.

Beginning of 3rd trimester

Vaginal discharge of a pink tint from 27 to 36 weeks requires special attention. When they appear, it is better for the expectant mother to consult a gynecologist, especially if such secretion appears regularly. The problem may indicate the presence of pathology. nine0003

End of 3rd trimester

If you notice pink discharge towards the end of pregnancy at 37-40 weeks, then most likely there is nothing to worry about. Such secretion may indicate the passage of a mucous plug, which indicates an impending birth.

In any case, a woman needs to contact an obstetrician-gynecologist to consult and remove all suspicions, as well as protect herself and the fetus from unpleasant consequences.

How to deal with pink discharge during pregnancy at home

If you find pink discharge at any stage of pregnancy, do not do anything yourself. The best thing you can do is to contact your gynecologist, who can pinpoint the exact cause of the problem.

- Discharge of pink color or with streaks of blood during pregnancy is always a special, separate situation that requires attention from both the pregnant woman and the doctor, - explains obstetrician-gynecologist Olga Lukasheva .

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