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  you are here  >>> FIND OUT > help me heather > body issues  
 


 
  Dear Heather,

I'm 19 and have regular periods. I am due for next week but for the past two days, I have noticed a dark brown discharge that I usually experience right at the end of my period.

I am in no pain or discomfort. I have had a boyfriend for four years, and we are always very careful and use condoms when having sex. I'm very worried about the discharge and want to know if it's harmful.

 
 
 
Hi.

Irregular bleeding and discharge may be due to any number of causes.

It's possible that it could be due to an irregularity in your cycle related to hormones. Your medical practitioner will have a way to test for hormonal levels.

According to Dr. Karen Rosewater, some irregular bleeding may also occur as a result of yeast or bacterial infections or sexually transmitted diseases, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. But these STDs are usually associated with pain, and you're less likely to have picked one up if you've faithfully used condoms. Irregular bleeding can sometimes occur during the implantation stage in pregnancy, which is also unlikely if you've been really careful when using condoms.

These are just a few examples in the range of possible causes. To pinpoint your specific issue, I would recommend that you consult a medical practitioner who can pursue a thorough diagnosis and plan for treatment, if one is needed.

Take care.

 
   
 
 

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