Little spotting during pregnancy

The cervix may bleed more easily during pregnancy, including after sex or a vaginal examination. Other causes include irritation or infection, and bleeding can occur with changes involving the pregnancy or placenta. The meaning can differ by stage of pregnancy, so give the exact timing to your maternity team.

Bleeding with one-sided abdominal pain, shoulder-tip pain, dizziness, or faintness can indicate ectopic pregnancy, particularly early in pregnancy. This is an emergency concern and needs immediate assessment.

Contact your maternity team or obstetric clinician and describe when spotting began, its colour and amount, and whether it followed sex or an examination. Mention cramps, pain, discharge, fever, reduced wellbeing, or any previous pregnancy concerns. You may be advised to have an examination, ultrasound, or blood tests.

Go to emergency care for heavy bleeding, severe pain, one-sided pain, shoulder-tip pain, faintness, dizziness, or feeling very unwell. Do not wait for a routine appointment if these symptoms occur.

Ask what follow-up is needed, whether you need an ultrasound or examination, and how to monitor the spotting. Confirm which symptoms require immediate hospital care and whom to contact outside clinic hours.