Bleeding Between Periods: Causes, Timing, and When to Worry

Spotting after a period can be breakthrough bleeding from hormonal fluctuations—usually light and brief. Other causes:

• Hormonal imbalance
• Pregnancy (implantation bleeding ~6–12 days post-ovulation)
• Infection/inflammation
• Cervical/vaginal trauma
• Medications (hormonal contraceptives)

Seek evaluation if bleeding is heavy, prolonged, or accompanied by pain, fever, or unusual discharge.