Health Tip: Spotting Between Menstrual Periods

By
Diana Kohnle
February 12, 2009, 1:01 PM ET
1 min read

Feb. 12 -- (HealthDay News) -- A regular menstrual cycle comes about every 28 days. Some women experience spotting between menstrual cycles.

Because spotting can be a sign of a serious problem, you should see your doctor if you have it. The U.S. National Library of Medicine lists these common causes of spotting between menstrual cycles:

  • Cancer of the cervix, uterus or sometimes fallopian tubes.
  • Side effect certain procedures, including a biopsy of the cervix or endometrial lining.
  • A miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or other complication of pregnancy.
  • Fibroids or polyps in the uterus.
  • Fluctuating hormone levels.
  • Use of an IUD.
  • A vaginal injury.
  • Starting or stopping birth control pills or other hormones, or using blood thinners.
  • Stress, underactive thyroid, or postmenopausal vaginal dryness.