Dark blood spotting after a period

Hormonal shifts, contraception, irritation, and infections such as Chlamydia can cause bleeding between periods. Endometrial polyps and uterine fibroids may affect the womb and contribute to spotting. Cervical dysplasia and cervical cancer can present with unusual bleeding; spotting after a period does not mean that cancer is the likely diagnosis. Womb cancer is uncommon in younger people but must be considered when bleeding is persistent or occurs after menopause.

Track how many days after your period the spotting begins, how long it lasts, and whether it follows sex, exercise, or a missed contraceptive dose. Note pelvic pain, unusual discharge, odour, fever, or dizziness. Arrange a clinician review for a new or repeated pattern. Depending on your history, assessment may include pregnancy or infection testing, a pelvic examination, cervical screening, or imaging.

Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding, severe pain, faintness, fever, or rapidly worsening symptoms. Seek prompt advice if pregnancy is possible, if bleeding occurs after menopause, or if spotting comes with foul-smelling discharge or pain during sex.

Ask whether the timing suggests leftover menstrual blood or another source, whether infection testing is needed, and whether your cervix or womb needs examination. Ask how to manage a missed contraceptive dose and what follow-up is needed if the spotting returns.