Spotting After Your Period: Causes and When to See a Doctor

Post-Menstrual Spotting: Common Causes

Light bleeding after your period ends can have many origins. Track timing and associated symptoms.

Frequent Causes

• Hormonal fluctuations – Ovulation spotting (mid-cycle), perimenopause.
• Implantation bleeding – ~10–14 days post-ovulation; light, brief.
• Contraceptives – Breakthrough bleeding on pills, IUDs, implants.
• Infections – STIs (chlamydia, gonorrhea), cervicitis, endometritis.
• Uterine polyps or fibroids – Benign growths causing irregular bleeding.
• Endometrial hyperplasia – Thickened lining, often from unopposed estrogen.
• Medications – Anticoagulants, certain antidepressants.

Red Flags – Seek Evaluation

• Heavy or prolonged bleeding.
• Pain, fever, abnormal discharge.
• Postmenopausal bleeding.
• After unprotected sex with new partner.
• Known bleeding disorder or anticoagulant use.

Your doctor can perform exam, ultrasound, labs, or hysteroscopy to diagnose and treat.