Spotting with cramps a week after your period

Some people notice brief light spotting around ovulation, sometimes with one-sided lower abdominal discomfort. Hormonal contraception, missed doses, or an intrauterine device can also alter bleeding. Irritation of the cervix, sexually transmitted infection, endometrial polyps, fibroids, or another uterine problem may cause bleeding between periods.

If pregnancy is possible, take a pregnancy test according to the test instructions and mention the result when seeking care. A clinician may ask about cycle timing, contraception, discharge, pain during sex, urinary symptoms, and the chance of infection. Examination and testing can clarify the source.

Record the day, colour, amount, cramps, discharge, and any trigger such as sex or missed contraception. Use a pad if you need to monitor flow. Arrange a routine appointment if the spotting repeats, lasts beyond a short episode, follows sex, or comes with unusual discharge. Do not stop prescribed contraception without advice.

Get urgent medical help for severe or worsening pain, one-sided pain, fainting, dizziness, fever, vomiting, or heavy bleeding. If you could be pregnant, pain with bleeding needs prompt assessment because an ectopic pregnancy can become an emergency.

Ask whether your contraception could explain the pattern, whether you need an infection test or pregnancy test, and what changes should prompt urgent review. Bring the dates of recent periods and a list of medicines or contraception.