What are the cause spotting only during menstrual cycle?
Causes of Spotting During Menstruation
Spotting during menstruation is common and usually not a cause for concern. However, if you experience heavy or prolonged spotting, it's important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
Some of the most common causes of spotting during menstruation include:
* Hormonal imbalances. Estrogen and progesterone are the two main hormones that regulate menstruation. When these hormones are out of balance, it can lead to spotting. This can occur during the teenage years, when hormone levels are fluctuating, as well as during pregnancy, menopause, and in women who are taking certain types of birth control.
* Implantation bleeding. This type of spotting occurs when the fertilized egg implants itself in the uterine wall. It usually happens around 10-14 days after ovulation and is usually light and short-lived.
* Breakthrough bleeding. This type of spotting occurs between periods and is caused by a sudden drop in estrogen levels. It is often associated with hormonal birth control methods, such as birth control pills and vaginal rings.
* Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This is a hormonal disorder that affects women of childbearing age. PCOS can cause a variety of symptoms, including irregular periods, heavy bleeding, and spotting.
* Uterine polyps. These are small, non-cancerous growths that develop on the lining of the uterus. Uterine polyps can cause spotting between periods, as well as heavy or prolonged bleeding during menstruation.
* Fibroids. These are non-cancerous tumors that grow in the muscle of the uterus. Fibroids can cause a variety of symptoms, including heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and spotting.
* Cancer. In rare cases, spotting can be a sign of cancer of the cervix, uterus, or endometrium. This is more likely if you are experiencing other symptoms, such as pelvic pain, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience heavy or prolonged spotting during menstruation, it's important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. This is especially important if you are experiencing other symptoms, such as pelvic pain, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue.
Your doctor will ask about your medical history and perform a physical exam. They may also order one or more of the following tests:
* Blood tests
* Ultrasound
* Biopsy
These tests can help to diagnose the cause of your spotting and determine the best course of treatment.
Treatment
The treatment for spotting during menstruation will depend on the underlying cause. In most cases, spotting does not require treatment. However, if your spotting is heavy or prolonged, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
* Hormonal therapy. This can be used to balance hormone levels and reduce spotting.
* Surgery. This may be necessary to remove uterine polyps or fibroids.
* Radiation therapy. This may be used to treat cancer.
Outlook
Spotting during menstruation is usually not a cause for concern. However, if you experience heavy or prolonged spotting, it's important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.