What should you know about prolonged spotting after period?

Spotting is light bleeding between expected periods. Hormonal contraception, ovulation, changes around perimenopause, irritation after sex, and infection can cause it. Growths such as [Endometrial Polyps](/conditions/endometrial-polyps/) or [Uterine Fibroids](/conditions/uterine-fibroids/) can also contribute. Cervical inflammation or [Chlamydia](/conditions/chlamydia/) may cause bleeding after sex. Less commonly, abnormal cervical or womb cells need investigation; [Cervical Dysplasia](/conditions/cervical-dysplasia/) and [Womb Cancer](/conditions/endometrial-cancer/) are examples clinicians may consider. The symptom alone does not identify its cause.

Track the dates, colour, amount, clots, triggers, cycle pattern, contraception, and associated pain or discharge. Arrange a medical appointment if the spotting persists, keeps returning, happens after sex, or is new after menopause. A clinician may ask about pregnancy possibility, medicines, sexual health, and screening, then offer an examination, pregnancy test, infection testing, blood tests, or imaging. A [Bleeding Between Periods](/symptoms/bleeding-between-periods/) guide may help you prepare.

Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding, severe or one-sided pelvic pain, fainting, marked dizziness, fever, or bleeding during pregnancy. After menopause, any new vaginal bleeding needs medical assessment. Contact a clinician promptly if bleeding follows sex repeatedly or occurs with offensive discharge, because infection and cervical problems may need treatment.

Ask what causes fit your cycle and medical history, whether pregnancy or infection testing is needed, when cervical screening is due, and whether an examination or scan is appropriate. Ask which changes should make you seek urgent care and how to manage contraception while the cause is being checked.