What to expect When You're 14 Weeks Pregnant and Experiencing Brown Discharge When You Wipe?
Is Brown Discharge During Pregnancy Normal?
If you're 14 weeks pregnant and experiencing brown discharge when you wipe, you're likely feeling a bit concerned. The good news is that this is usually perfectly normal, especially during the second trimester of pregnancy. Brown discharge is usually just a sign that blood is being expelled from the uterus and, while this can be intimidating, it is rarely an indication of a major problem.
When Should You See a Doctor About Brown Discharge During Pregnancy?
Most of the time, brown discharge during pregnancy is nothing to worry about. However, if you're experiencing any of the following symptoms, it's a good idea to get in touch with your healthcare provider:
- Heavy bleeding
- Pain in your abdomen or pelvis
- A fever
- A foul odor
- Itchiness or irritation in your vagina
- Unusual clumps or lumps in the discharge
What Could Be Causing Brown Discharge During Pregnancy?
If you're 14 weeks pregnant and experiencing brown discharge, it could be caused by any number of things. These can include:
- Implantation bleeding: This is when the fertilized egg implants itself in the uterus. This is usually quite light and can occur at any time during the first trimester.
- Miscarriage: If you're experiencing brown discharge with cramps or other signs of a miscarriage, you should contact your healthcare provider right away.
- Infection: Bacterial vaginosis can cause brown discharge, as can sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhea.
- Cervical polyps: These are small growths on the cervix that can sometimes cause light brown discharge.
- Uterine fibroids: These are noncancerous growths in the uterus that can sometimes cause brown discharge.
How to Manage Brown Discharge During Pregnancy
If you're 14 weeks pregnant and experiencing brown discharge, there are a few things you can do to help manage it. These include:
- Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated can help to keep your discharge thin and more easily expelled.
- Wear cotton underwear: This can help to keep the area dry and prevent irritation.
- Avoid douching: Douching can upset the delicate balance of bacteria in your vagina, which can make things worse.
- Avoid wearing tight clothing: Tight clothing can trap moisture and increase the chances of infection.
- Eat a balanced diet: Eating a balanced diet can keep your hormones in check and help to keep your discharge under control.
When to Worry About Brown Discharge During Pregnancy?
If your brown discharge is accompanied by any of the symptoms listed above, contact your healthcare provider right away. If you're 14 weeks pregnant and experiencing brown discharge without any other symptoms, however, it's usually nothing to worry about.
The Bottom Line
Brown discharge during pregnancy is usually nothing to worry about. However, if you're 14 weeks pregnant and experiencing brown discharge with other symptoms, it's important to get in touch with your healthcare provider. Taking care of yourself and eating a balanced diet can help to keep your discharge under control.