Breakthrough bleeding lasting more than seven days

The duration does not reveal the cause by itself. The amount of blood, timing in the cycle, pregnancy possibility, medicines, contraception, and other symptoms determine how quickly assessment is needed.

Prolonged spotting or bleeding can occur with hormonal contraception, missed doses, changing hormone patterns, pregnancy-related problems, infection, fibroids, or changes in the cervix or uterine lining. Endometrial polyps can present with irregular or prolonged bleeding.

Bleeding after sex, unusual discharge, burning when urinating, or pelvic discomfort may lead a clinician to consider infection testing. Chlamydia can present with bleeding between periods or after sex, but testing rather than symptoms confirms the diagnosis.

Contact a healthcare professional and describe whether the bleeding is light spotting, a steady flow, or becoming heavier. Track period-product changes, clots, pain, dizziness, fatigue, discharge, and any bleeding after sex.

Check for pregnancy when relevant and list contraception, hormone treatment, blood-thinning medicine, supplements, and any missed doses. The evaluation may involve a pregnancy test, blood count, examination, infection tests, or pelvic imaging, guided by your history.

Seek urgent help if bleeding is very heavy or you develop fainting, pronounced weakness, breathlessness, chest discomfort, severe pelvic pain, or pain and bleeding with a positive pregnancy test. These features matter because ongoing blood loss and pregnancy complications can require rapid treatment.

Ask whether you need testing for anaemia, pregnancy, or infection and whether an examination or ultrasound would help. Confirm whether to continue your current contraception or hormone medicine while the bleeding is assessed; do not stop prescribed treatment without instructions.