I am 57 and haven't had my period for 7 months. now i have this brown discharge. do i count this as a period and start over again for twelve month?

Not necessarily: The brown discharge typically signifies old blood in the genital tract-could be from the uterus, the cervix, or higher up in the vagina. I would not necessarily count this as an actual period because the blood is actually considered older blood, likely from your last period 7 months ago. I would not think you'd need to start counting over.FSH and estradiol levels could help as well if still unsure

Don't start over: This is common to have some minor bleeding or brown discharge. If you have not had a regular period then don't start over. If you have bleeding or the brown discharge one year after your last period you will need to bee a doctor for evauation. If you have pain or fever you should be seen right away.