Light bleeding during the first trimester: what to know

Spotting may be pink, red, or brown and can happen when the cervix is sensitive or after sex or an examination. It can also occur as part of an early pregnancy problem, so colour and amount alone cannot confirm what is happening. An ectopic pregnancy is a serious condition that can present with early pregnancy bleeding, particularly when bleeding occurs with one-sided lower abdominal pain, shoulder-tip pain, dizziness, or faintness. Read more about [Ectopic Pregnancy](/conditions/ectopic-pregnancy/).

Tell the clinician the date of your last period, the pregnancy test result, how much blood you have seen, and whether you have cramps or pain. They may arrange an examination, blood tests, or an ultrasound depending on your symptoms and stage.

Contact your maternity service, obstetric team, or early-pregnancy service for guidance, even if the bleeding is light and has stopped. Use a pad rather than a tampon so you can observe it, and note its colour, clots, timing, and any pain. Rest if you feel unwell, avoid driving when dizzy, and do not take new medicines without checking that they are suitable in pregnancy. Keep your phone available and follow the service’s instructions about assessment.

Go to emergency care urgently for severe or one-sided abdominal pain, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, marked dizziness, heavy or rapidly increasing bleeding, or feeling very unwell. Seek prompt advice for fever, passing tissue, or pain that is worsening. If you cannot reach your maternity team and warning symptoms are present, use your local emergency service. Early assessment helps clinicians decide what support and follow-up you need.

What assessment is appropriate for my symptoms and pregnancy stage? Do I need blood tests or an ultrasound? What amount of bleeding or type of pain should send me to emergency care? When should my pregnancy be reviewed again?