Brown spotting at six weeks pregnant

A brown appearance suggests blood has remained in the vagina before coming out. Minor cervical bleeding, including after sex, can look this way. Infection is another possibility when there is odour, itching, pain with urination, or unusual discharge.

At this stage, bleeding can also occur with miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. The appearance of spotting cannot diagnose either condition. Clinicians combine your dates and symptoms with examination, ultrasound, or blood tests when these are appropriate.

Call your maternity, early-pregnancy, or gynaecology service and describe the amount, colour, onset, and any pain. Tell them how the pregnancy was dated, whether its location has been confirmed on ultrasound, and whether you have previously had an ectopic pregnancy or tubal surgery.

Wear a pad rather than inserting a tampon, and observe whether bleeding increases or turns bright red. If tissue passes, follow the service's instructions about whether to bring it for assessment. Do not delay care while waiting to see if the colour changes.

Seek emergency assessment for severe abdominal or pelvic pain, pain mainly on one side, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, significant dizziness, or heavy bleeding. These are warning signs of internal bleeding, ectopic pregnancy, or substantial blood loss and should not wait for a routine appointment.

Ask whether the pregnancy location has been established, whether an ultrasound can answer the clinical question yet, and whether blood tests need repeating. Check how you will receive results and which symptoms mean returning sooner.