What should you know about having bleeding between periods?

Bleeding between periods is bleeding outside your expected menstrual flow, and repeated, unexplained or unusual bleeding should be assessed. It may be spotting or bleeding closer to a period, after sex or at another unexpected time. Hormone changes and contraception are common explanations, but the symptom alone cannot identify its cause.

Bleeding can occur with cervical irritation, infection such as Chlamydia, Cervical Dysplasia, Endometrial Polyps or Uterine Fibroids. Hormone fluctuations, missed contraception and pregnancy-related changes may also contribute. Less commonly, changes involving the cervix or womb lining, including Cervical Cancer or Womb Cancer, can present with unexpected bleeding. The presence of bleeding does not mean one of these conditions is the cause; examination determines what is happening.

Record the date, amount, colour, duration, relation to sex or contraception, pain, discharge and pregnancy possibility. Arrange a medical appointment if the bleeding repeats, follows sex, occurs after menopause, or is accompanied by pelvic pain or unusual discharge. Assessment may include a pregnancy test, infection testing, cervical examination, screening review or ultrasound. Bring your medicine and contraception details.

Seek urgent care for heavy bleeding, faintness, severe or one-sided pelvic pain, shoulder-tip pain, fever or feeling seriously unwell, especially if pregnancy is possible. Prompt review is also needed for bleeding after menopause or bleeding that keeps returning. Emergency help is appropriate for collapse, severe dizziness or pain that becomes intense quickly.

Ask what tests fit the timing and pattern of your bleeding, whether infection or pregnancy testing is needed, and whether your cervical screening is up to date. Discuss how contraception, medicines, polyps or fibroids might affect the plan and which changes require urgent help.