Brown discharge: why do teens get it?

Is it 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 daughter that they don't need to worry

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Brown discharge before a period: what it means for your daughter

If your 11 or 12 year old daughter has brown discharge, it’s completely valid to feel concerned – especially if they haven't started their period yet.

Many parents worry that brown discharge means something is wrong, or wonder whether it’s a sign that a first period is coming.

The good news is that brown discharge before a period is usually normal, especially during puberty.

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

Understanding why it happens and when it’s a sign to check in with a doctor can help your daughter feel more assured about their 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 (commonly known as discharge).

When blood takes longer to leave the body, it oxidises (mixes with oxygen) 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 blood might be released slowly, causing it to mix with oxygen and turn brown
• After a period: the uterus is clearing out the last bits of blood, which take longer to leave and so turns brown with time
• Mid-cycle: hormonal changes or ovulation can sometimes cause slight spotting (bleeding between periods) that looks brown as it's very light and flowing slowly

Most of the time, brown discharge is completely normal and part of the body’s natural cycle as it clears out old blood.

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 first 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 blood flowing slowly, 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.

You may also want to read up on our guide about what a first period looks like and signs your daughter is about to start her period if you have noticed brown discharge.

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 about brown discharge

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 and it's likely your period is on it's way/ending for the month – this happens to a lot of people."
• “If you’re ever worried, it’s always okay to ask me or luna.”
• “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.

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What if your teen feels embarrassed about brown discharge?

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.

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Brown discharge before a first period: common FAQs

Is brown discharge normal before a first period?

Yes. Brown discharge before a first period is usually old blood leaving the body as hormones begin to change during puberty.

Does brown discharge mean a period is coming soon?

Sometimes, but not always. For some girls it appears weeks or months before a first period, while others never notice it at all.

Should I take my daughter to the doctor for brown discharge?

Not usually – unless it comes with pain, itching, a strong smell, or frequent bleeding.