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What Is Light Spotting?

Spotting is any vaginal bleeding that occurs between periods or during pregnancy. Spotting can sometimes result in a heavy flow, but most of the time intermittent vaginal bleeding is minimal and referred to as “light spotting.”

  1. Spotting During Ovulation

    • Many women experience light bleeding even in between their periods. This can be caused from a number of factors, though usually it occurs when the uterus sheds part of its lining during ovulation.

    Cervical Irritation

    • Irritation of the cervix can also lead to light spotting. Though usually not severe, in some cases cervical irritation is due to cancerous tumors.

    Early Pregnancy Spotting

    • Light spotting during the early stages of pregnancy is common as the fertilized egg becomes implanted. During this time, bleeding may occur for a day or two according to Dumex, a pregnancy health website.

    Prevalence

    • According to Parent Dish, around 15 to 25 percent of women experience spotting during the first three months of pregnancy. Spotting in the first trimester is typically normal and does not harm the baby.

    Late Pregnancy Spotting

    • According to Parent Dish, light spotting during the third trimester can be indicative of a problem with the placenta. This is not always the case, but it’s best to seek a physician’s advice whenever third trimester spotting occurs.

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