What should you know about spotting seven weeks pregnant?

Light spotting in early pregnancy can occur for several reasons, including cervical sensitivity or irritation. It can also accompany a pregnancy complication, so colour and amount alone cannot determine whether the pregnancy is progressing normally. Bleeding may be unrelated to pregnancy, such as from an infection like Chlamydia or a cervical change. Cervical Dysplasia and Cervical Cancer are not diagnoses made from spotting alone.

A maternity clinician may ask about the bleeding and pain, check pregnancy hormone levels, and arrange an ultrasound when appropriate. Tell them the date of your last menstrual period, your blood type if known, and any previous pregnancy concerns.

Contact your maternity service or clinician for advice rather than waiting for the next routine visit. Use a pad to observe the amount, and note the colour, clots, cramps, and whether symptoms change. Do not insert anything into the vagina while bleeding unless a clinician advises it. Take prescribed medicines as directed and disclose all medicines or supplements.

Seek emergency care for heavy bleeding, severe or one-sided abdominal pain, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, dizziness, or marked weakness. Fever or worsening pain also needs urgent assessment. These symptoms require prompt care even if the spotting began lightly.

Do I need an examination, blood test, or ultrasound? Which changes in bleeding should send me to emergency care? Are any of my medicines or health conditions relevant?