Brown discharge: why do teens get it?

Is it normal or something to worry about?

Quick summary

• Brown discharge is usually just old blood and is a normal part of the menstrual cycle
• It can show up before a first period, after a period, or mid-cycle due to hormone changes
• If it comes with itching, pain or a bad smell, it's worth checking in with a doctor – otherwise reassure your teen that they don't need to worry

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If your teen has noticed brown discharge for the first time, they might feel confused or even concerned. 

As a parent, you might be wondering how to explain it in a way that reassures them while giving them the right information about what’s happening in their body.

At luna, we often hear from teens who have questions about changes in their discharge and what it means for their menstrual health. 

Many wonder if brown discharge is a sign of something wrong or if it’s just part of their natural cycle. 

Some might even feel self-conscious about it, especially if they weren’t expecting it.

The good news? Brown discharge is usually completely normal and nothing to worry about. 

Understanding why it happens and when it’s a sign to check in with a doctor can help your teen feel more assured about their vaginal health.

So here’s a simple breakdown of what brown discharge means, when it’s expected, and when it might be worth paying closer attention:

What does brown discharge mean?

Brown discharge is usually just old blood mixed with vaginal fluids.

When blood takes longer to leave the body, it oxidises and turns brown instead of red.

This is a natural process and happens to almost everyone who menstruates.

It can occur:

• Before a period: the body is getting ready for menstruation, and some older blood might be released
• After a period: the uterus is clearing out the last bits of blood, which take longer to leave
• Mid-cycle: hormonal changes or ovulation can sometimes cause slight spotting that looks brown

Most of the time, brown discharge is completely normal and part of the body’s natural cycle. 

However, if it comes with a strong smell, itching, burning, frequent spotting or discomfort, it could indicate an infection or point to other medical conditions that might require further investigation.

Brown discharge before a period

If your teen hasn’t started their first period yet, brown discharge might be a sign that it’s coming soon.

You could explain it like this:

• “Your body is getting ready for your first period – this can happen in the months leading up to it.”
• "It’s just a small amount of old blood, which is completely normal.”

Some teens experience brown discharge for weeks or months before their first proper period, while others don’t notice it at all.

Both are completely normal.

If they ask when their first period will come after noticing brown discharge, there’s no exact timeline – it could be soon, or it could take a few more months. 

Reassuring them that everyone’s body develops at its own pace can help ease any anxiety they might have.

luna has some articles exploring this topic more, including what they should expect and how to prepare for their first period!

Brown discharge after a period

Many teens experience brown discharge at the end of their period. 

This happens because the uterus is still shedding the last bits of blood, which takes longer to leave the body and appears brown instead of red.

You could explain it in a simple way such as:

• “It’s just your body finishing up your period – this happens to most people.”
• “The blood is a bit older, which is why it looks brown instead of red.”

If brown discharge lasts more than a few days after their period ends, it could be due to hormonal fluctuations, which are very common in teens as their cycles start to regulate.

When brown discharge might be a cause for concern

While brown discharge is usually not a cause for concern, there are some cases where it might be worth getting a medical opinion. 

Encourage your teen to let you know if they notice:

• A strong, unpleasant smell along with the discharge (this could indicate an infection)
• Itching, burning, or pain in the vaginal area
• Frequent or unpredictable brown discharge between periods
• Irregular brown discharge can sometimes be linked to:
• Hormonal imbalances – common in teens as their cycle is still regulating
• Infections like bacterial vaginosis or a yeast infection
• Irritation from new period products, scented soaps, or certain fabrics

If your teen is worried, you can remind them that it’s okay to check with a doctor when they are concerned about their wellbeing.

How to reassure your teen

Many teens feel self-conscious about bodily changes, especially when it comes to discharge or periods.

Letting them know that brown discharge is common and happens to almost everyone can help them feel more at ease.

Here are some things you could say:

• "Your body is adjusting to its cycle – this happens to a lot of people."
• “If you’re ever worried, it’s always okay to ask me or a doctor.”
• “It’s just another way your body takes care of itself – nothing to worry about.”

Keeping the conversation open and normalising the experience helps teens feel more comfortable asking questions and understanding their bodies.

What if my teen feels embarrassed?

Some teens might feel uncomfortable talking about discharge, even with a parent.

If they seem hesitant, you can:

• Let them know it’s normal: even saying, “I know this can feel awkward, but it’s totally normal and happens to everyone who has periods” can help
• Give them resources: if they don’t want to talk in person, suggest reliable sources like luna!
• Encourage questions at their own pace: sometimes, just letting them know they can ask questions whenever they’re ready helps take the pressure off

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Helping your teen feel prepared

If your teen has just started their period journey, they might feel more comfortable knowing what to expect and how to prepare accordingly.

Helping them keep a small period kit in their bag can make them feel more in control.

A simple kit could include:

• Pads or panty liners – for light discharge or spotting
• Extra underwear – just in case
• Wipes – for feeling fresh when changing products
• A small pouch – to keep everything discreet and organised

Brown discharge is just a natural part of the menstrual cycle and something most people who menstruate will experience at some point. 

Whether it happens before their period, after it, or even randomly due to hormonal shifts, it’s usually not something to worry about.

By explaining it in a calm and reassuring way, you can help your teen understand their body more without fear of embarrassment. 

Keeping communication open and judgment-free encourages them to come to you with any questions – helping them navigate their menstrual health with more confidence.

Hopefully, this guide makes it easier to support your teen in feeling prepared, informed, and comfortable with their body’s natural changes.