What should you know about first trimester of pregnancy spotting?

Spotting means a small amount of blood, often noticed on wiping or underwear. The cervix can bleed more easily during pregnancy, including after sex or a cervical examination. Other explanations include infection, a pregnancy that is not developing normally, or an ectopic pregnancy. Bleeding between periods has different causes when someone is not pregnant; these can include cervical conditions, polyps, fibroids or sexually transmitted infections, so pregnancy status matters when symptoms are assessed.

Record the start time, colour, amount and whether clots or tissue are present. Use a sanitary pad rather than a tampon, and contact your pregnancy care team for individual advice. Have your gestational age, previous pregnancy history, blood group if known, and any recent sex or examination details ready. Do not self-treat with leftover antibiotics or stop prescribed medicines without guidance.

Go to urgent care for heavy bleeding, severe abdominal or pelvic pain, one-sided pain, faintness, shoulder-tip pain, fever, or feeling suddenly very unwell. Seek advice promptly if spotting persists, returns, or is accompanied by unpleasant discharge or pain when passing urine. The urgency depends on the symptoms, not simply on how common spotting is.

Ask whether you need an ultrasound or blood tests, whether an infection test is appropriate, how to monitor the bleeding, and which service to contact outside clinic hours.