Seeing spotting during pregnancy can be scary. Let's break down what spotting is and what it could mean. Spotting is light bleeding, typically lighter than a period and not enough to soak a pad. (See images for reference – link to relevant images here/below!).
In early pregnancy (first trimester), spotting is fairly common, affecting around 15-25% of pregnant women. Implantation bleeding, when the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining, is a frequent cause. Hormonal changes or irritation of the cervix after sex can also lead to light spotting.
However, spotting can sometimes signal a more serious issue, such as an ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage. While the images linked in this post can help you visually distinguish the *amount* of blood, it's crucial to consult your doctor immediately if you experience heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, dizziness, or clots.
Later in pregnancy, spotting could indicate placental issues or preterm labor. Don't hesitate to contact your healthcare provider for any bleeding during pregnancy – early detection and intervention are key to a healthy pregnancy!
