Spotting after your period is over

The timing can help describe the symptom but cannot diagnose it. Brown discharge may be older blood, while fresh pink or red spotting is newer bleeding. Ovulation, starting or changing hormonal contraception, vaginal dryness, or friction can all be relevant. Chlamydia can cause bleeding between periods and may also cause discharge, burning when urinating, or pelvic pain. Endometrial polyps and uterine fibroids may cause irregular bleeding. Cervical dysplasia and cervical cancer can present with abnormal bleeding; this symptom does not tell you which condition, if any, is present.

Keep a simple record of the date, amount, colour, triggers, and associated symptoms. Consider whether there has been a new contraceptive method, missed doses, sex, or possible exposure to a sexually transmitted infection. Book a medical appointment if the spotting repeats, lasts beyond a brief episode, follows sex, or starts after menopause. Bring your bleeding record and medication list so the clinician can plan appropriate examination or testing.

Seek urgent care for heavy bleeding, faintness, marked weakness, severe abdominal or pelvic pain, or pain concentrated on one side. Fever or rapidly worsening pain also needs prompt assessment. If pregnancy is possible, take a pregnancy test and seek urgent advice for bleeding with pain, dizziness, or feeling unwell.

What causes fit the timing of my spotting? Should I be checked for infection or pregnancy? Do I need a cervical examination or further assessment of the womb lining?