Bleeding that isn’t part of your normal period can have a range of causes, from harmless to serious. It’s important to consider factors like your age, pregnancy status, medications, and any accompanying symptoms. If the bleeding is heavy, lasts more than a few days, or is accompanied by severe pain, fainting, fever, or unusual discharge, seek medical care promptly. Key possibilities to consider
- Hormonal fluctuations or ovulation: Some people experience mid-cycle spotting or light bleeding around the time of ovulation or when starting, changing, or stopping hormonal birth control.
- Pregnancy-related bleeding: Spotting can occur in early pregnancy or with implantation; persistent or heavy bleeding should be evaluated by a clinician.
- Uterine or cervical changes: Polyps, fibroids, or cervical irritation can cause irregular bleeding between periods.
- Infections or inflammation: Sexually transmitted infections or other infections can lead to vaginal bleeding outside of your period.
- Less common but important causes: Endometriosis, thyroid problems, stress, significant weight change, or certain medical conditions affecting blood clotting or the uterus.
- Medications and supplements: Some anticoagulants, hormonal meds, or herbals can increase bleeding tendency.
When to see a healthcare provider
- Bleeding between periods that is new, persistent, or associated with pain, fever, unusual discharge, or dizziness.
- Bleeding after sex, after menopause, or with a history of heavy periods or endometrial/ cervical changes.
- Heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad or tampon every hour for several hours), or if you pass large clots.
- If pregnancy is possible and you’re experiencing bleeding.
What to prepare for a visit
- Details about your cycle length, date of last period, and description of the bleeding (color, amount, duration).
- Any pregnancy tests, medications, supplements, or recent changes in birth control.
- Associated symptoms (pain, fever, pain during urination, vaginal discharge, etc.).
If you’d like, share your age, whether you might be pregnant, what medications you’re taking, and the nature of the bleeding (how heavy, what color, when it started, any pain). I can tailor potential next steps and questions to bring up with a clinician.
