Everything you need to know about spotting
"You looked exactly at the calendar: it’s not yet time for your period, but you still have a light bleeding. No panic - this could be spotting, also known as light bleeding. Never heard of it? We’ll tell you everything!"
Spotting: What is it?
During the menstrual cycle, the female body releases hormones. Each woman reacts differently to this hormonal increase: painful or heavy periods, acne, white discharge, headaches, etc.
Spotting causes certain symptoms that accompany the female menstrual cycle. It involves light bleeding in the vagina that occurs during the cycle, but not during menstruation. Not all women are affected by this phenomenon, but more and more are.
Spotting is an Anglicism that literally translates to "spot formation." This light bleeding often causes spots in the underwear. In contrast to menstruation, here the blood flows in small drops, hence the name. Additionally, the actual menstrual bleeding is often stronger. Visually, menstrual blood is bright red, whereas spotting tends to occur in darker shades and can even go as far as brown. While menstruation comes regularly every month depending on the cycle, spotting is a sporadic bleeding.
What are the causes of spotting?
Several factors can cause such bleeding. Usually, they are hormonal factors, but spotting can also be triggered by certain events or situations.
Hormonal causes
A sudden increase in hormones, a decrease, or a hormonal imbalance are the main causes of spotting. The entire menstrual cycle is regulated by two main hormones, estrogen and progesterone. Sometimes the cycle is disrupted, leading to breakthrough bleeding.
"If you have started, switched, or discontinued a hormonal contraceptive method (pill, patch, pessary, hormonal IUD), it may be an intolerance to the hormones contained in it. This often leads to spotting. However, you should not stop using the contraceptive immediately if you experience breakthrough bleeding. In most cases, it is not about a lack of effectiveness: perhaps your body just needs some time to adjust to the hormonal change before it functions normally again?"
Sometimes situations arise in which the hormonal balance is disturbed, which can also lead to light bleeding. This is the case during perimenopause, with stress, fatigue, anxiety, anemia, jet lag, premenstrual syndrome, etc.
The first period
Spotting usually occurs shortly before the actual first period. It is recognizable by its brownish color and irregularity. These few small bleedings are the harbingers of the first menstrual cycles.
pregnancy
As we know, a woman does not menstruate during pregnancy. However, there are cases where the body continues the cycle regardless of implantation. This is referred to as pregnancy spotting. But don't worry, this happens frequently. One in four women is affected by it. Generally, this harmless bleeding does not occur after the first 3 months of pregnancy. However, a gynecological examination should still be conducted to avoid the risk of a miscarriage.
Gynecological diseases
Spotting can also be caused by diseases such as uterine fibroids or sexually transmitted infections. Although this is rare, it can become a danger. If the bleeding lasts longer than ten days, it is referred to as metrorrhagia. In this case, a medical check-up is necessary.
Do I need to see a doctor?
As already mentioned, the color of the period is not always a warning sign, but it should be closely monitored. Dark bleeding is generally not a good sign. However, spotting itself is completely harmless.
This depends on the causes of the bleeding. If it is caused by a hormonal disorder, it is sufficient to wait a little until it passes. The same applies if it is caused by perimenopause or the first menstruation. If you are pregnant, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist or your family doctor, especially if the bleeding has lasted for more than 3 months. This can also be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy. In general, one can never be sure: spotting can also be a symptom of a gynecological condition. To avoid complications, you should seek the advice of a doctor.
What can be done against spotting?
The treatment of spotting also depends on the cause of the bleeding. If it is caused by a new hormonal contraceptive method that the person cannot tolerate, you only need to change it according to the doctor's instructions, adjust the dosage, or undergo hormone therapy. The goal is to restore the hormonal balance of the body.
In the case of gynecological diseases or infections, medication or surgical treatment is necessary. For people who are stressed, anxious, or tired, rest and a few days off or a short weekend for relaxation are often recommended.
In any case, only your doctor can prescribe you a treatment or point you to the right solution. Therefore, even in the case of minor bleeding, you should consult your doctor for advice.
What feminine hygiene products should I use during spotting?
To protect your underwear from stains that can occur due to vaginal discharge or spotting, you can choose from several solutions. Some women opt for panty liners, others for tampons, but the best solution is still the period underwear.
In practice, it can be quite annoying if you don't wear the right hygiene protection during spotting. Contrary to the rule, spotting is not a very heavy bleeding, so a tampon is not very suitable for such light bleeding.
The Sisters Republic period underwear is the perfect solution for such inconveniences. It is worn in the same way as regular panties, but also offers unparalleled comfort. Although it is not very thick, it absorbs as much fluid as 3 tampons. This way, you stay nice and dry during any spotting, and the waterproof barrier layer prevents any leaks. Other benefits? The period underwear is antibacterial, odor-reducing, and environmentally friendly. You have the choice between numerous sizes, styles, and absorbencies. Try it out now!
