Spotting in the first trimester

Light pink or brown spotting may arise from the cervix, which can be more prone to bleeding during early pregnancy. It can follow sex or an examination. Some people also notice light bleeding around the time a pregnancy becomes established. These possibilities cannot be confirmed from colour alone.

Bleeding can also be a presentation of early pregnancy loss or an ectopic pregnancy. The symptom does not tell you which condition is present. Infection, including Chlamydia, can cause bleeding with pelvic pain or unusual discharge and needs testing and treatment when diagnosed.

Tell your pregnancy care team about any first-trimester bleeding. Use a pad or liner to observe it, and record its colour, amount, start time, and whether cramps or pain are present. Avoid inserting tampons or vaginal products while bleeding. Keep your appointment even if the spotting stops, because the clinician may use an ultrasound or blood tests to assess the pregnancy.

Take medicines only as advised for pregnancy, and do not stop regular prescriptions without speaking with the prescriber. If you know your blood group is Rh-negative, mention this when seeking advice.

Go to emergency care for severe or one-sided pain, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, significant dizziness, heavy or rapidly increasing bleeding, or feeling very unwell. Seek prompt care for fever, worsening cramps, or tissue passing from the vagina. These symptoms need assessment regardless of how the spotting began.

Ask whether you need an ultrasound or blood tests, what changes in bleeding should prompt urgent help, and whether you should alter sex or activity temporarily. Ask how to manage pain safely during pregnancy.