What Causes Brown Discharge During Pregnancy?
5. Molar Pregnancy
When the placenta does not form properly, molar pregnancy occurs. In this case, a tumor develops in the uterus, causing the placenta to grow into a collection of fluid-filled sacs known as cysts. This complication renders the pregnancy non-viable.
In all likelihood, this type of pregnancy will not endure since the placenta cannot nourish or develop a baby at all.Dark brown to bright red vaginal bleeding is seen during the first trimester with this condition.

Other Causes
There can also be various other causes for brown bleeding during pregnancy, including:
- Cervical Irritation:Cervical irritation can occur due to sex, a cervical check by your doctor, or an infection. This can occur at any point during your pregnancy. It leads to discharge that is usually brownish-pink in color.
- Cervical Polyp:These are harmless fingerlike growths that develop on your cervix. The polyps can rub against nearby tissue around your cervix and can cause bleeding, which appears later as brown discharge during pregnancy.
- Mucus Plug:It is a mucus layer that forms a plug at your cervix and protects your baby throughout pregnancy. At the end of the pregnancy, this mucus plug dislodges and causes vaginal bleeding.
Is there a way to reduce brown discharge during pregnancy?
Though we have told you seeing some brown discharge during pregnancy is generally not a cause for worry, you may still avoid it altogether. The best way to avoid brown discharge is to understand why you have it.
For most women, this is a normal part of pregnancy; but, in some cases, treatment may be required. There are no particular precautions to prevent brown discharge during pregnancy – if your body feels the need to release it, it will. If you are worried, you can always consult your doctor for an assessment.
Meanwhile, here are some steps you can take to ensure an overall healthy pregnancy and, in the process, avoid recurring discharge:
- Avoid strenuous exercises if you have a low placenta
- Get some rest to prevent high blood pressure
- Don’t lift heavy objects as it may increase the chances of miscarriage during early pregnancy
- Avoid sexual intimacy if you have placenta previa
- Take your prescribed medications on time