Cramping and spotting in early pregnancy

Early pregnancy can make the cervix more sensitive, so light spotting may follow sex or an examination. Mild cramps may accompany changes in the uterus. Bleeding and cramping can also be a presentation of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, which is why the combination deserves attention. Infection, cervical changes, polyps, and fibroids are other possible explanations for bleeding. The amount, colour, pain location, pregnancy timing, and examination findings help a clinician decide what to do.

Use a pad and note the amount, colour, clots or tissue, pain location, and start time. Contact your maternity service, doctor, or an early pregnancy service for advice, particularly if the pregnancy has not been seen on an ultrasound. Avoid inserting anything into the vagina until advised. Before taking medicine, check its suitability in pregnancy with a clinician or pharmacist.

Go to emergency care for severe or one-sided abdominal pain, heavy or rapidly increasing bleeding, fainting, dizziness, severe weakness, or shoulder-tip pain. Seek prompt assessment with fever, feeling very unwell, or pain after a positive pregnancy test. Continuing or recurrent spotting should be discussed even when cramps are mild.

Ask whether you need an ultrasound, blood tests, or infection testing, and what symptoms should bring you back urgently. Share your last menstrual period, pregnancy test result, medicines, blood group if known, and any previous ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage.