Common, harmless causes
Light spotting between periods (intermenstrual bleeding) is common and often harmless. Frequent causes include ovulation spotting around the middle of your cycle, starting or changing hormonal contraception, missed pills, and the settling-in phase of an IUD.
Early pregnancy can also cause light implantation spotting. Old blood clearing at the start or end of a period can appear as brown spotting too.
Causes worth checking
Some causes of spotting need assessment: infections (including some sexually transmitted infections), cervical changes or polyps, fibroids, hormonal imbalances such as PCOS or thyroid issues, and — less commonly — more serious conditions. Bleeding after sex specifically should always be checked.
Because the same symptom can be trivial or important, the pattern and any other symptoms guide whether it needs looking into.
When to see a GP
See a GP if spotting between periods is persistent or recurrent, happens after sex, comes with pain, discharge, itching or odour, or if you're postmenopausal (any bleeding then needs prompt assessment). It's also worth checking if you're overdue for cervical screening.
Your GP can take a history, arrange tests such as swabs, an ultrasound or a cervical screening test, and reassure or treat as needed. A telehealth consult is a discreet way to get it sorted.
Related condition
Periods & menstrual health →References & sources
- 1.Periods — Jean Hailes for Women's Health
- 2.Heavy periods — healthdirect
- 3.Menstruation — healthdirect
- 4.Heavy periods — Better Health Channel
This content is general information and not a substitute for individual medical advice. Please consult a GP for your personal situation.
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