Unusual Menstrual Discharge Question
 

Okay so I use the nuva ring off and on. Right now is an on time for me. Actually I just started my period a few days ago. First some background on a normal period for me and then the problem.

Usually without the birth control 5-7 days with major cramping the day before and first 2-3 days then cramping getting lighter. The time between varies from 30-40 days. With the birth control its a bit lighter cramps but still a bit heavy and 5 days with the same bleeding. Usually starting 3-4 days after I take the ring out.

This last period started 2 days after I took the ring out. I didn't think much of it and it was spotting instead of heavy bleeding right away like normal. I've had one or two like this, still wasn't too worried. Bleeding got a bit heavier but still about medium. I figured it would be a light period. Today as I was leaving work I stopped off in the bathroom. Didn't need to change my pad but still looked down to check it.

This is where the question comes in. There was some really unusual discharge. At least that's what I am referring to it as. It was about 1 1/2 - 2 inches long. It was a creamy white color with what looked like a vein and some dark tissue on it. Wondering what it was I used some toilet paper to pick it up and it was fairly firm and round like tubing only it was all organic of course. So I was thinking it was part of the uterus lining but I've never had anything like that before. It wasn't discharge like mucous because it retained it's shape. I thought about saving it and maybe showing a doctor but then decided not too. While driving home it started to bother me.

Should I see a doctor? Does anyone know what I am describing or have any idea about it? Should I worry about this? Oh and the other thing that was bothering me was that I haven't had cramps most of this period. There was some hard cramping the first morning for about 45 minutes and some mild the other mornings. Other than that nothing. Which is highly unusual for me. Any advice greatly appreciated. Thanks for reading!

I think the safest thing to do is see the doctor. It could just be some sort of heavy discharge, but it's always best to be on the safe side. Because it was as solid as you say and retained it's shape in some manner, I would really recommend having yourself checked out. Most uterine lining is going to be thin and flexible. Hope everything is alright!

Yeah, I would definitely go to the doctor. It might have something to do with your method of birth control you are using. The vaginal ring compared to pills or the patch does have a higher percentage (20%) of vaginal discharge that can be considered bothersome. It is tricky trying to find the right birth control method. Might I suggest the patch? (ortho evra). You stick it on once a week and you don't even know it's there. Plus, lower potential "side effects" of vaginal discharge. Been using it for years with no problems whatsoever. I hope if/when you see a doctor that they should figure out what is going on..

Go to a doctor. It's abnormal, therefore enough to warrant at least a phone call.

Its been my experience when I dont have a heavy bleeding period....but a spotty one I do something similar to what you described (and for the record I just had my yearly exam and Im fine)

but to make yourself feel better I'd go ahead and at least call the doctor and ask about it.

Well, go to the doctor.

But I've been on the pill for 3 years and I've had it come out in like... clumps. Never anything firm though, just like a drier blood clot type thing.

K, talking about it is making me nauseous...

It's probably just a blood clot, I get those all the time, but if it makes you feel better, go see the doctor. It can't hurt and it will make you feel better about things.