Spotting between periods is quite normal however, sometimes bleeding outside of your period time can indicate something more.
Spotting is often defined as bleeding between periods; bleeding or spotting any time other than when you have your period is considered abnormal vaginal bleeding, or intermenstrual bleeding.
Common causes of spotting:
Birth Control
The introduction of birth control measures such as the pill, injection, IUD, and other hormonal solutions can cause spontaneous. Birth control can also be used to stabilise irregular periods for some women.
Ovulation
It is quite rare, but some women find that they spot during ovulation. For many women, this can be anywhere between 11 days and 21 days after the first day of your last period. This spotting typically lasts one to two days only.
Pregnancy
Spotting during pregnancy isn't uncommon about 25% of women spot in their first trimester. Make sure you still advise your doctor, as if this is prolonged or heavier than just spotting it could be a sign of miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy.
Stress
Stress can cause all kinds of changes in your body, including fluctuations in your menstrual cycle. Some women may experience vaginal spotting due to high levels of physical or emotional stress.
Sex
Spotting after intercourse can sometimes be caused by deep penetration, resulting in some cervical bleeding or lacerations in the vagina; though it may also be a sign that you have a sexually transmitted disease (STD). STDs that are most likely to cause spotting are gonorrhoea and chlamydia. Best to get checked after unprotected sex.
Endometriosis/PCOS
Both of these conditions can be the cause of irregular bleeding. Often these take some time to diagnose, so if you believe your spotting is linked to Endometriosis or PCOS talk to your medical professional immediately.
These listed above are only a small selection of what can cause spotting between periods. It is recommended to contact your doctor or a trusted medical professional if you are concerned about any irregular bleeding happing between your usual menstrual cycle.
Seek medical assistance if your spotting is accompanied by fever, dizziness, easy bruising, abdominal pain, heavy bleeding or pelvic pain.