Spotting is the worst. The only spots I’m looking for are the hot ones, amirite ladies? When it happens, it’s usually confusing, sometimes alarming, but mostly just annoying. Like, are you a period or nah?
I’m sure we’ve all experienced spotting, or “breakthrough bleeding” (BTB), at some point. Toni Weschler’s Taking Charge of Your Fertility describes spotting as “small amounts of red, pink, or brownish blood occurring during the menstrual cycle at times other than the true menstrual period.” In fact, spotting between periods is actually very common and can be triggered by several things – some serious, some not so serious. So what is spotting, why does it happen, and how is it different from a legit period, you ask? Allow me to be your QTNA (Questions That Need Answers) Aficionado and share a few #MajorKeyAlerts as we ride through the journey of more success to understanding spotting.
Vaginal bleeding from spotting is much lighter than your regular menstrual cycle – in flow and color. Keep that in mind. Blood flow during your period is heavier requiring protection (sanitary pads or tampons). Also, spotting is usually unexpected; a surprise appearance if you will, while your period tends to be more consistent. You know the Lady in Red is coming for her regularly scheduled monthly visit.
What is your body trying to tell you?
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Your period happens when the membrane lining the inside of your uterus sheds causing menstrual bleeding. Spotting, though, may be caused by a variety of factors:
Even though spotting can happen regularly for women, it isn’t normal and can be a warning sign sometimes, too. Whenever you notice bleeding outside of your regular period, contact your primary care physician or OB-GYN, especially if you are pregnant. Spotting might be an indication of a more serious complication.
Don’t want you to be in danger, girl. Talk with your doctor about symptoms you’re experiencing and be prepared for a physical exam to identify the cause of your spotting.
For the most part, spotting is nothing serious – more of an inconvenience, really. A helpful, effective way to determine whether you’re spotting to menstruating is to *drumroll* TRACK YOUR PERIODS! Kindara is here for you, ladies, like a trusted friend. Use the app to chart your cycle, monitor your monthly menstruating patterns, and be sure to share findings with your doctor.
Feel better about spotting? Drop (see what I did there?) us a line at support@kindara.com if you have more QTNA.
LYLAS,
Robbyn
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