What does it mean if you have bad smelling brown discharge for over a week after your period ends?

If you are experiencing bad-smelling brown discharge for over a week after your period ends, it is important to see a healthcare provider for evaluation and treatment. There are several possible causes of this symptom, including:

Infection: A bacterial or sexually transmitted infection (STI) can cause abnormal vaginal discharge that may be brown, foul-smelling, and accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, itching, or burning during urination. Some common infections that can cause these symptoms include bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, chlamydia, and gonorrhea.

Endometritis: This is an infection of the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) that can occur after childbirth, miscarriage, or other uterine procedures. Symptoms may include fever, chills, lower abdominal pain, and abnormal vaginal discharge.

Menstrual irregularities: In some cases, hormonal imbalances or other conditions that affect the menstrual cycle can cause abnormal bleeding or discharge. This may include brown spotting before or after a period, or periods that are unusually heavy or prolonged.

Ectopic pregnancy: In rare cases, brown discharge after a period can be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy, where the fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tube. Other symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy may include lower abdominal pain, nausea, and dizziness.

Cancer: In some cases, abnormal vaginal discharge can be a sign of cancer of the cervix, uterus, or ovaries. This is more likely in women who are older, have a history of certain risk factors such as smoking or human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, or have other symptoms such as pelvic pain, weight loss, or unexplained bleeding.

It is important to see a healthcare provider for an evaluation to determine the cause of your symptoms and receive appropriate treatment. The healthcare provider will likely perform a physical examination, including a pelvic exam, and may order tests such as a pelvic ultrasound, blood tests, and cultures of the vaginal discharge to help diagnose the cause of your symptoms.