What should you know about daily spotting after your period?

Light blood loss after menstruation can follow hormonal contraception, ovulation, irritation of the cervix, or an infection such as chlamydia. Polyps and uterine fibroids can also disturb bleeding. Cervical dysplasia and cervical cancer may present with unusual bleeding, including bleeding after sex, while womb cancer can present with abnormal uterine bleeding. A symptom does not establish any one diagnosis, and many explanations are treatable; ongoing spotting still needs a clinician to identify the source.

Record the colour and amount, the days it occurs, whether it follows sex, and any pain, discharge, fever, dizziness, or pregnancy possibility. Note contraception, medicines, recent procedures, and the date of your last cervical screening when known. Arrange a GP or gynaecology appointment if spotting continues or returns. Assessment may include a pregnancy test, examination, infection testing, or imaging depending on your age, history, and findings.

Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding, faintness, severe pelvic or one-sided pain, fever, or bleeding during pregnancy. Arrange prompt review for bleeding after sex, bleeding after menopause, new persistent discharge, or worsening pain. Emergency symptoms should not wait for a routine screening appointment.

Ask what could be causing the timing, whether pregnancy or infection testing is needed, whether your cervix or womb should be examined, and which changes should trigger urgent contact.