Pregnant and spotting blood

Small amounts of blood may arise from a sensitive cervix, recent sex, irritation or an infection. Bleeding can also occur with changes inside the uterus or problems that need prompt treatment. [Bleeding Between Periods](/symptoms/bleeding-between-periods/) explains how clinicians describe bleeding outside an expected period. [Chlamydia](/conditions/chlamydia/) may cause bleeding with discharge or pelvic discomfort. Cervical conditions such as [Cervical Dysplasia](/conditions/cervical-dysplasia/) and [Cervical Cancer](/conditions/cervical-cancer/) can also present with abnormal bleeding, although spotting cannot diagnose any of them. The pattern, amount, pain and pregnancy assessment are what guide the next step.

Contact your maternity clinician or pregnancy service and describe the blood’s colour, amount and timing. Use a pad to monitor it, and record cramps, clots, discharge, fever or dizziness. Avoid inserting anything into the vagina until you have received advice if bleeding continues. Keep any appointment for pregnancy assessment; the clinician may recommend examination, blood tests or ultrasound depending on your stage and symptoms.

Go to urgent care for heavy or increasing bleeding, severe or one-sided pain, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, marked dizziness, fever, or feeling seriously unwell. These symptoms can signal a complication such as ectopic pregnancy or infection and should not be assessed only at home. Seek prompt advice for recurrent bleeding even when each episode seems small.

Ask what amount of bleeding should prompt a same-day review, whether you need an ultrasound, whether you should avoid intercourse, and how to manage pain safely. Tell the clinician about your pregnancy dates, blood group if known, medicines and previous pregnancy problems.