The human body has the natural ability to expel bodily fluids such as saliva, tears, mucus and sweat. In the case of vaginal discharge, which varies according to the amount, color and odor at different times of the menstrual cycle, changes may indicate the occurrence of some specific medical conditions.
According with the doctor. Fabio Muniz, medical coordinator at Hospital e Maternidade São Cristóvão Saúde, member of the São Paulo Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics and member of the Brazilian Society of Mastology, pink discharge before or after menstruation can have several causes. Some of the most common ones include:
- Ovulation: during ovulation, the ovary releases an egg and the ovary wall may rupture, causing a pinkish discharge;
Subscribe to O POVO+
Get access to all exclusive content, columnists, unlimited access and discounts in stores, pharmacies and much more.
- Vaginal infections: vaginal infections, such as candidiasis or trichomoniasis, may cause pinkish discharge especially associated with unpleasant odor and itching;
- Hormonal changes: changes in hormone production, such as during the climacteric and menopause, can cause pinkish discharge;
- Vaginal injuries: injuries to the vagina, such as irritations, cracks, or cuts, can cause pinkish discharge;
- Pregnancy: pink discharge associated with menstrual delay, lack of contraception, breast sensitivity, may be signs of suspicion of pregnancy; it can happen at various stages of pregnancy, including early and late pregnancy;
- Changes in hormone levels: specific endocrine conditions, such as climacteric/menopause and hypothyroidism;
- after sexual intercourse: can be caused by irritation/microfissures of the vaginal mucosa or by contamination by bacteria during sexual intercourse. “However, it could also be a sign of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) such as gonorrhea or chlamydia. These infections can cause pinkish discharge, painful urination, and pelvic pain,” explains Dr. Fabio, who highlights early treatment as essential in order to avoid complications and prevent the transmission of infection to partners.
pink discharge pregnancy
Contrary to what many people think, the discharge Pink in itself is not a reliable sign of pregnancy. However, occurring in conjunction with other signs and symptoms, such as menstrual delay, abdominal pain or tender nipples, may suggest early pregnancy.
“In these cases, pregnancy is confirmed by means of a specific test, which detects the presence of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in the urine. hCG is a hormone produced by the placenta and is a reliable indicator of pregnancy. If pregnancy is suspected, it is important to perform a test or seek medical help for a more accurate assessment”, emphasizes the doctor.
After confirming the pregnancy, Dr. Fabio Muniz points out two moments in which pink discharge can appear: “at the beginning of pregnancy, approximately 6 to 12 days after conception, it is possible that vaginal discharge with a pink color, caused by the implantation of the embryo in the uterine wall, is confused with a little menstrual bleeding.
Risks to maternal and fetal health
In earlier stages of pregnancy, pinkish discharge can be a sign of preterm labor or premature rupture of membranes. In some cases, discharge may be followed by expulsion of fetal or placental tissue from the uterus, leading to miscarriage. “In these cases, it is important to seek medical help immediately, as there is a risk to maternal health and the pregnancy itself”, recommends the specialist.
warning signs
“Pink discharge can be a sign of concern if it’s accompanied by other symptoms, such as itching, pelvic pain, an unpleasant smell, pain during intercourse, or abnormal vaginal bleeding,” Dr. Fabio. These symptoms could indicate a vaginal infection or other sexually transmitted diseases.
Additionally, pinkish discharge could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a cervical or endometrial injury – or even cancer. gynecological. Therefore, the medical coordinator of São Cristóvão Saúde highlights the importance of knowing the signs and symptoms and seeking regular medical help to prevent these pathological conditions.
“In general, it is advisable to make an appointment with your gynecologist annually, in order to carry out preventive exams, take care of gynecological health and strengthen the knowledge of the physiological conditions present in the development of the female body”, concludes Dr. Fabio Muniz.
By Fernanda Martinelli
Doubts, Reviews and Suggestions? Talk to us
Tags
