Many women rely on their menstrual cycles to run like clockwork, but that’s not always the case. Some women get their periods on schedule every 28 days while 14-25% of women have irregular periods. One of the most common irregularities women experience includes spotting between periods.
If you have an irregular period, you might’ve searched for “Why am I still spotting after my period?” This guide will discuss the common causes of spotting and when you should be concerned.
So, Why Am I Still Spotting After My Period?
The difference between spotting and normal menstrual blood flow is that spotting refers to small amounts of dark brown or pink blood. There usually isn’t enough flow where you would need to grab a tampon or pad.
Spotting after your period can be normal. Some signs that you might be dealing with another type of problem include:
- Spotting with vaginal discharge
- Significant or bright red bleeding
Let’s talk about the common reasons you might be experiencing spotting.
Hormonal Contraceptives
Your method of birth control can cause spotting after your menstrual cycle. That’s because contraceptives can cause shifts in your hormones, specifically estrogen.
Missing, stopping, or starting birth control can cause breakthrough bleeding. Extended-cycle or low-dose birth control pills typically cause this.
IUDs may cause spotting on occasion, especially right after you have had them implanted. You might be spotting for a few months after you get your IUD as your body adjusts.
Vaginal Injury
Your vagina can bleed if the tissue or skin has been damaged. Most vaginal injuries happen during penetrative sex. Injuries can occur if the vagina is dry.
Speak to your healthcare provider if you’re experiencing vaginal dryness. This can be caused by:
- Hormone fluctuations
- Lack of arousal
Infections
Vaginal infections can cause light blood flow. Your reproductive system tissues are very sensitive. Inflammation in that area can often cause bleeding.
Spotting can sometimes indicate the following health issues:
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Sexually transmitted infections
- Uterine, cervical, and vaginal infections
Keep an eye out for spotting coupled with vaginal discharge. The discharge might be green, yellow, or white, depending on what the infection is.
Hormonal Conditions
Spotting and irregular periods commonly occur during perimenopause. Your body’s reproductive hormones start to fluctuate in the time leading up to menopause. Your menstrual cycle won’t be as regular as it usually is.
While spotting is normal during perimenopause, certain hormonal conditions can cause this issue, such as:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Thyroid disease
These conditions show other signs on top of spotting between periods. It’s important to make an appointment with your healthcare provider if you believe you’re dealing with one of them.
Schedule a Women’s Wellness Exam at Women’s Health Associates
We hope we’ve answered the question, “Why am I still spotting after my period?” Spotting between periods isn’t always a cause for concern. Knowing the warning signs of a more serious issue is important to staying healthy.
Women’s Health Associates in Boise provides comprehensive women’s health exams, including mammograms and screenings for breast cancer. Our healthcare facility has two locations in the Boise and Meridian areas. Contact us to book an appointment for a health screening.
