Light red spotting during pregnancy

Pregnancy increases blood flow and sensitivity around the cervix, so light spotting can follow sex or an examination. Some people have spotting without a serious cause. Bleeding may also accompany miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, infection, a cervical polyp, fibroids, or another pregnancy-related problem. Womb cancer is an uncommon explanation in this setting, but unusual bleeding still belongs with a clinician who knows your pregnancy details. Colour and amount cannot diagnose the cause.

Call your maternity unit or obstetric clinician for personalised guidance, even if spotting has stopped. Use a pad rather than a tampon, and record the start time, amount, colour, clots, cramps, and any pain. Avoid sex until you have received advice if it seems to trigger bleeding. Tell the clinician how far along the pregnancy may be, whether its location has been confirmed, and whether you have had prior pregnancy complications. Testing may include examination, blood work, or ultrasound.

Attend emergency care for heavy bleeding, severe or one-sided abdominal pain, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, severe dizziness, fever, or sudden weakness. These features can require rapid assessment, including assessment for ectopic pregnancy. If symptoms are getting worse and your maternity team is unavailable, use local emergency services.

Could the cervix explain this spotting, or do I need assessment for a pregnancy complication? Has the pregnancy location been confirmed? Do I need blood tests or an ultrasound? What symptoms should send me straight to emergency care?