Symptoms
Is spotting between periods normal?
Spotting or bleeding between periods is usually not serious, but the NHS says to always get it checked by a doctor. Common causes include hormonal contraception, small growths such as polyps or fibroids, and infections. Rarely it can be a sign of cancer, which is why a check is better than a guess.
What causes bleeding between periods?
- Hormonal contraception, like the pill.
- Small growths in or around the womb, such as polyps or fibroids.
- Infections like chlamydia.
- After sex: changes on the cervix (ectropion), cervical polyps, or vaginal dryness.
Rarely, it can be a sign of cancer, which is why it’s worth a check rather than a guess.
When is bleeding between periods an emergency?
If you’ve recently missed a period and have unusual bleeding with pain anywhere in your tummy, get an urgent appointment (111 in the UK). It can be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy.
When should I see a doctor about spotting?
See a doctor if:
- You’re bleeding between periods.
- You bleed after sex.
Frequently asked questions
Is spotting the same as a period?
No. Spotting is light bleeding outside your period. If you’re not sure which it is, noting the dates and how heavy it was helps a doctor.
Can the pill cause spotting?
Yes. Hormonal contraception, like the pill, is one of the common causes of bleeding between periods.
Can spotting be a sign of pregnancy?
A very light bleed around the time a period is due can happen in early pregnancy. If you have missed a period and have unusual bleeding with pain in your tummy, get an urgent appointment.
Sources
Seventh is a free period and cycle tracker for iPhone and iPad, by doogud. This article is general information, not medical advice. If something feels wrong, see a doctor.
