What Should I Do If I Have Dark Brown or Blackish Discharge Before My Menstrual Period?

A few days before menstruation, dark brown secretions are mostly considered a normal physiological phenomenon and generally do not require special treatment. However, if the menstrual blood appears dark brown during menstruation, it is recommended to visit a hospital for examination and timely treatment. This is because the secretion levels of various estrogens and progesterone in women's bodies drop to their lowest levels before menstruation, resulting in the shedding and bleeding of the endometrium, which forms menstruation. During this process, a small amount of endometrial shedding and bleeding may occur near the onset of menstruation. However, due to the prolonged retention of this small amount of menstrual blood in the uterine cavity and vagina, dark brown secretions may appear. If a woman has dark brown secretions initially during menstruation, but the menstrual blood appears dark brown during menstruation, this suggests the presence of health issues, which are generally related to endocrine dysfunction. Women experiencing such menstrual blood are advised to visit a hospital for examination, such as a sex hormone panel test. If endocrine dysfunction is diagnosed, timely adjustment or treatment should be provided.

1. Avoid Sexual Activity During Menstruation: The cervix is slightly open during menstruation. Having sex during this period can easily introduce bacteria from the external genitalia and perineum into the vagina, cervix, and even the uterus, leading to conditions such as endometritis, acute adnexitis (including the fallopian tubes and ovaries), and pelvic peritonitis. Additionally, sexual activity during menstruation may cause the shed endometrium to flow backward into the pelvic cavity, leading to endometriosis. These conditions can result in increased menstrual blood volume, prolonged menstruation, and menstrual pain.

2. Avoid Strenuous Exercise During Menstruation: While exercise is not completely prohibited during menstruation, strenuous activities such as jumping and running should be avoided as they can exacerbate menstrual discomfort, including backache and menstrual pain or menstrual disorders. Swimming during menstruation should also be avoided as the slightly open cervix makes it easier for bacteria to enter the uterine cavity, increasing the risk of infection and various gynecological inflammations.

3. Avoid Eating Cold and Salty Foods During Menstruation: Consuming cold foods or drinking cold beverages during menstruation can affect uterine contraction, leading to impeded menstrual flow and menstrual pain. Additionally, due to the imbalance of estrogens and progesterone during menstruation, many women may experience irritability and anxiety. Eating salty foods can exacerbate water and sodium retention, leading to headaches and edema.