Spotting is light menstrual bleeding that can happen before, after, or between periods. Menstrual periods normally come every 26-35 days. While minor spotting directly before or after a period is considered normal, mid-cycle spotting is not normal and should be investigated further. Spotting between periods can feel confusing and scary and is also quite inconvenient. No one wants to be bleeding more than necessary, and unpredictable spotting can be bothersome and disruptive to daily life.
What causes spotting between periods?
Structural Causes
Abnormal physical changes in the body can lead to inappropriate blood loss. Examples include fibroids, cysts, polyps, and abnormal cervical cells.
Hormone Imbalances
Abnormal hormone levels in the body can trigger menstrual bleeding when it’s not supposed to happen. Estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and thyroid hormones all influence the menstrual cycle. If hormones are imbalanced, we can see irregular bleeding patterns and spotting between periods.
Infections
STIs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause abnormal bleeding. These can also cause other symptoms such as abnormal vaginal discharge and painful urination. Viral infections such as the flu or the common cold can also temporarily disrupt menstrual regularity.
Stress
High stress affects female hormones and can cause irregular menstruation and spotting between periods.
Hormone-based medications
Medications that influence hormone levels, such as birth control or hormone replacement therapy, can affect menstrual cycles and cause spotting between periods. Symptoms are most common when starting new treatments or changing dosing regimens.
What to do about spotting between periods?
Specific treatment depends on the root cause of spotting, which often requires further testing to determine. The appropriate testing depends on the unique symptoms each person is experiencing, but can include lab work, a pelvic ultrasound, a urine test, and a pap smear.
What treatments are available?
Once the root cause of spotting between periods has been determined, individualized treatment can be implemented that addresses the underlying structural, hormonal, infectious, or stress-based factors.
Many cases are very responsive to a comprehensive natural and holistic plan that utilizes nutrition and lifestyle changes along with hormone balancing herbs and supplements.
Follow us on Instagram to learn more from our team.
Dr. Caitlan Gignac. ND
Naturopathic Doctor San Jose
408-356-1364
Dr. Caitlan Gignac. ND is a naturopathic doctor dedicated to helping her patients achieve optimal health through a natural and holistic approach. She focuses on addressing the root causes of symptoms, empowering patients with tools like nutritional education, lifestyle adjustments, herbal medicine, and natural supplementation, in addition to conventional methods to support lasting wellness. Her expertise spans women’s health, adrenal and thyroid health, mental health, digestion, fertility, and skin conditions. When she’s not caring for patients, Dr. Gignac enjoys connecting with nature through surfing, hiking, gardening, and exploring the Sierra Nevada mountains.
