I just had my period—why am I spotting?

Spotting is lighter bleeding between expected periods. It may appear pink, red, or brown. Changes in hormonal contraception, missed pills, ovulation, vaginal dryness, or sex can contribute. Cervical inflammation from an infection such as Chlamydia can also cause bleeding, especially after sex. Less commonly, polyps, fibroids, cervical dysplasia, cervical cancer, or womb cancer can present with bleeding between periods. The spotting itself does not identify its cause.

Note when the spotting began, how long it lasts, its colour and amount, and whether it follows sex or a contraceptive change. Consider a pregnancy test if pregnancy is possible. Arrange a clinician review if the bleeding recurs, continues, occurs after sex, or comes with discharge, pelvic pain, or fever. A clinician may ask about cycles and contraception and may offer an examination or tests.

Seek urgent care for heavy bleeding, faintness, severe or one-sided pelvic pain, shoulder-tip pain, or bleeding during a possible pregnancy. Prompt assessment is also needed for fever with pelvic pain or feeling very unwell. These symptoms can signal bleeding, infection, or a pregnancy complication and should not be judged by the amount of spotting alone.

Ask whether your pattern fits bleeding between periods, whether contraception or infection could contribute, which tests are appropriate, and what changes should prompt urgent review.