What Causes Foul Smelling Brown Vaginal Discharge?

Posted on Fri, 24 Apr 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 24 Apr 2015 Answered on

Thu, 14 May 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I am 57 years old and have been having a discharge that is brown and was smelling like amonia now it is a musty smell. I am going to doctor next week but would like to have an idea what are the possibilities. No irregular going to bathroom no pain in area

Answered by Dr. Shanti Vennam (34 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Mostly due to atrophic vaginitis.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Thanks for posting your query.

If you are post-menopausal, this discharge should be further investigated for the source. Most often, atrophy of the vaginal walls after menopause can give rise to easy access to infections and these infections can cause such discharge.

If you are on any hormones, insufficiency can be another likely cause. Urinary infection, though asymptomatic, is a common accompaniment in such a situation.

As you have already planned to see a specialist, please go ahead. Ask if you need a swab, urinalysis and pap smear. Further management can be planned accordingly.

Please maintain good genital hygiene. Do not douche or use strong soap solutions. Do not use tampons.

Hope I have answered your query. Please feel free to contact for further clarifications. I will be happy to help.

regards,
Shanti.V.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj