When should you see a doctor about bleeding between periods?

Bleeding between periods includes spotting or bleeding outside your expected menstrual flow. It may follow a change in contraception, irritation after sex, or an infection such as chlamydia. Other possible causes include uterine fibroids, endometrial polyps, or pregnancy-related conditions. Cervical cancer and womb cancer can present with bleeding between periods, but bleeding alone does not establish the cause.

A clinician may ask about your cycle, contraception, sexual health, medicines, pain, and pregnancy possibility. Assessment can help distinguish a short-lived change from bleeding that needs examination or testing.

Record when the bleeding began, whether it is spotting or a heavier flow, how long it lasts, and whether it follows sex or happens after a missed period. Note pelvic pain, unusual discharge, fever, dizziness, or changes in your usual cycle. Bring a list of medicines and contraception, and mention any chance of pregnancy.

Do not delay an appointment because the bleeding is light if it keeps returning or has no clear explanation. A healthcare professional can decide whether you need a pregnancy test, infection testing, an examination, or further investigation.

Seek urgent medical help if bleeding is heavy or rapidly worsening, or if you feel faint, weak, confused, or short of breath. Severe or one-sided pelvic pain, shoulder-tip pain, fever, or bleeding with a possible pregnancy also needs prompt assessment. These symptoms can signal a problem that should not wait for a routine appointment.

You could ask: What causes fit my symptoms and history? Do I need a pregnancy or infection test? Could my contraception or medicines be contributing? What warning signs should make me seek help sooner? When should I follow up if the bleeding continues?