Spotting during pregnancy at 7 weeks

Spotting means light bleeding noticed on wiping or underwear rather than a heavy flow. Early pregnancy increases blood flow to the cervix, so minor irritation after sex or an examination may cause bleeding. Other possibilities include changes around the developing pregnancy, an infection, or a problem that needs assessment. The appearance alone cannot identify the cause. Note the colour, amount, clots, timing, and whether cramps or one-sided pain occur.

Bleeding between periods is a related symptom topic, while infections such as Chlamydia can sometimes cause bleeding after contact. Cervical Dysplasia and Cervical Cancer are less common explanations, but unusual bleeding still deserves appropriate evaluation.

Contact your maternity service, obstetric clinician, or doctor for personalised advice, even if the spotting is light. Use a pad so you can observe the amount, and avoid tampons while bleeding. Rest if you feel unwell, keep a note of symptoms, and tell the clinician your pregnancy dates, blood group if known, and any recent sex or examination. Do not start medicines or stop prescribed treatment without checking first.

Seek urgent medical care for heavy or increasing bleeding, severe or one-sided abdominal pain, shoulder-tip pain, faintness, dizziness, fever, or feeling very unwell. These symptoms need prompt assessment in early pregnancy. If the bleeding continues, returns, or is accompanied by clots or worsening cramps, contact your pregnancy care team without waiting for a routine appointment.

Ask whether you need an examination, pregnancy hormone tests, or an ultrasound based on your symptoms and pregnancy dates. Ask what amount of bleeding should prompt a return visit, whether sex or exercise should be paused, and how to reach the service outside clinic hours.