7 things that can cause spotting between periods

There may be times when you think your period is over, only to notice spots of blood in your underwear a few days later. This is more common than many people think, and there are several reasons why it may happen.

First, the basics: Menstrual cycles usually last between 21 and 35 days, with a typical period running anywhere from a few days to about a week. If you bleed between periods, it’s considered irregular. Depending on how heavy the blood flow is, it can be referred to as spotting or intermenstrual bleeding.

“Spotting can happen at any point in the cycle, but it’s not a steady flow,” says Ma.Lourdes Mina, MD, an OBGYN in Macon, Georgia. Spotting can appear as pink blood on toilet paper after you urinate or have sex, or as spots of blood in your underwear either before or after your period. It’s considered spotting if the blood is so light it wouldn’t require the use of a panty liner.

Although most reasons for spotting (such as switching birth control methods) are considered benign, others may be more serious. Spotting along with certain other symptoms might point to an underlying condition. If you notice spotting that lasts more than a day or two, especially if you have other symptoms, you should schedule a visit with your healthcare provider (HCP). “Any bleeding that is concerning needs to be checked,” says Dr. Mina. Your gynecological practitioner might point to one of the following reasons for your spotting.