Menstruation is a process in which the uterine lining is shed to allow for a new reproductive cycle. Normal menstruation can occur every 21 to 35 days, and lasts for four days on average, according to MedlinePlus. Brown spotting between periods, medically referred to as intermenstrual bleeding, can indicate an underlying medical problem, so it is important to contact a doctor if it occurs.
Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that develop and grow on the uterus. Fibroids develop in about one out of five women and usually affect women over the age of 30, according to MedlinePlus. The exact cause of uterine fibroids is unknown, but they are believed to develop as a result of imbalances with the hormone estrogen. Fibroids can range in size from miniscule to several pounds. Symptoms of fibroids include abdominal fullness, gas, brown spotting between periods, heavy periods, pelvic cramps and pain during intercourse. If fibroids are small, the fibroid will be monitored for growth regularly, but treatment is usually not necessary unless the fibroid grows. Hormonal therapy may be used to shrink larger fibroids and occasionally, surgery may be necessary.
Cervicitis
Cervicitis literally means inflammation of the cervix, which is the lower end of the uterus that extends into the vagina. Cervicitis is usually caused by an infection, but the University of Maryland Medical Center notes that it can occasionally occur as a result of exposure to chemicals, allergies to spermicide or latex or an inserted pelvic device, such as a diaphragm. Symptoms of cervicitis include brown spotting between periods, unusual vaginal discharge, pain during sexual intercourse and pressure in the pelvic area. A number of treatment options for cervicitis are available. Cryosurgery may be used to freeze the tissue, which destroys it. Electrocauterization, which burns the tissue, may also be used. In some cases, antibiotics or hormonal therapy may be effective treatments.
Endometriosis
The endometrium is the lining of the uterus that sheds during menstruation. Endometriosis is a condition that occurs when the endometrium grows in places other than the inside of the uterus, most often the fallopian tubes, ovaries or pelvic tissue, according to MayoClinic.com. Even when it grows in abnormal places, the endometrium will still shed as it does during menstruation. Because of this, the most common symptoms of endometriosis include heavy menstrual periods and spotting between periods. Other symptoms include painful periods, pelvic pain and infertility. Treatment for endometriosis depends on the severity of the tissue growth. Some cases can be effectively treated with medication and hormone therapy, whereas other cases may require surgery.
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