Spotting even after your period

A small amount of bleeding after menstruation can follow ovulation, a change in hormonal contraception, or irritation after sex. Infection, including Chlamydia, may cause bleeding with discharge, pelvic discomfort, or pain during sex. Polyps, fibroids, cervical dysplasia, and cancers of the cervix or womb can also present with bleeding between periods. A symptom does not identify its cause, so repeated spotting deserves a clinical review.

Pregnancy is another possibility if it could apply to you. Note whether the bleeding follows sex, occurs at the same point in each cycle, or comes with pain or discharge.

Keep a simple diary of dates, colour, amount, cycle timing, sex, contraception, pain, and discharge. Take a pregnancy test if pregnancy is possible. Arrange a routine appointment when spotting repeats, lasts beyond the expected end of a period, or starts after menopause. A clinician may offer an examination, infection testing, pregnancy testing, or imaging based on your history.

Get urgent care for heavy bleeding, severe pelvic or abdominal pain, fainting, dizziness, fever, or bleeding during a possible pregnancy. Seek prompt assessment for bleeding after menopause, bleeding after sex that keeps recurring, or discharge with a strong unpleasant smell.

Ask whether your contraception could explain the pattern, which infection tests are appropriate, and whether you need an examination of the cervix or an ultrasound. Ask how long to monitor the symptom before returning.