Cramping and spotting during early pregnancy

Light spotting may happen as the cervix becomes more sensitive, including after sex or an examination. Mild, brief cramps can reflect normal changes as the uterus adapts, but symptoms alone cannot confirm how a pregnancy is progressing. Infection can cause bleeding with pelvic pain, discharge, or fever. Pregnancy outside the uterus can cause one-sided pain and may become an emergency. Pregnancy loss is another possible explanation for bleeding and cramps; only an assessment can clarify the cause.

Contact your maternity service or clinician to report any bleeding in pregnancy, particularly if it is new or continues. Note the colour and amount of blood, whether clots are present, where the pain is located, and whether symptoms change. Keep your pregnancy details and medicines ready. A clinician may use an examination, pregnancy-hormone testing, or ultrasound depending on the timing and symptoms. Avoid inserting anything into the vagina until you have received advice if bleeding is active.

Go to urgent care for severe or one-sided abdominal pain, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, severe dizziness, heavy bleeding, fever, or feeling very unwell. Seek immediate advice if bleeding is increasing or pain is worsening. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint or unsafe.

Could my symptoms fit an infection or pregnancy outside the uterus? Do I need blood tests or an ultrasound? What amount of bleeding, pain, or dizziness should prompt emergency care?