15 Reasons why you may be spotting before your period
10. Endometriosis
The inner lining of your uterus is rich in blood vessels, and hormones like estrogen and progesterone primarily influence its growth. In some cases, this endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus in your ovaries, abdomen, and intestines. This causes bleeding and spotting between periods, painful cramping, infertility, and discomfort during sex, while passing stool or urine. 1 in every 10 people with a uterus may have endometriosis. However, many cases are undiagnosed. You may need a combination of medication and surgery to treat endometriosis.
11. Polycystic ovary syndrome
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) occurs when a person's ovaries or adrenal glands produce high amounts of androgens or "male" hormones. They struggle with pregnancy because the condition causes irregular menstrual cycles with spotting between periods. They also tend to gain weight and have excessive hair growth with acne because of the hormonal imbalance. A combination of hormonal birth control, diet, and exercise is known to regulate the symptoms of PCOS.
12. Stress
Everyone experiences emotional, mental, and physical stress, but stresscauses significant bodily changes for some people. This is because of the release of the stress hormone cortisol, which pushes the body to release lower levels of estrogen and progesterone. As a result, a hormonal imbalance causes irregular cycles and bleeding between periods.
13. Medications
Blood thinners, thyroid medicines, hormones, and birth control commonly cause spotting and bleeding between periods. Birth control medication contains estrogen and progesterone in pills, patches, injections, or implants. You may experience spotting if you skip doses, change the type or amount of your medication or use the same method for a long time. Talk with a doctor if your symptoms get worse, as they may be able to provide an alternative form of birth control that avoids vaginal bleeding.
14. Thyroid disease
If you have an underactive thyroid, your thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone to properly regulate your body's internal processes. This includes your periods. You may experience spotting after your period ends, but you may also notice sudden weight gain, dry skin, puffy face, hair fall, constipation, joint pain, and muscle stiffness. You may need to take thyroid hormones to treat the condition.
15. Pregnancy
Spotting during pregnancy is common, affecting 15 to 25% of people during their first trimester. Bring it to your doctor's attention if you experience spotting. Get medical attention immediately if you have sudden heavy bleeding with pelvic pain, as that could indicate a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy.
