Spotting between cycles is commonly known as intermenstrual bleeding, breakthrough bleeding, abnormal uterine bleeding and bleeding between periods. Metrorrhagia is the official medical term. It can be, but is not always, a symptom of disease or infection. A medical examination is the best way to discover the cause of the bleeding.
Identification
Spotting is a bloody discharge from your vagina between periods. You will notice it on your panties or when you wipe yourself after going to the bathroom. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) states that you can do a self-examination to determine if the bleeding is coming from your vagina and not your rectum or urine. Simply insert and remove a clean tampon to check for the source. A soiled tampon likely indicates your vagina, cervix or uterus as the source of the spotting. Spotting varies in color from light pink to red and even brown. Note the color of your vaginal discharge and explain it to your doctor to help her with a diagnosis.
Misconceptions
It is a misconception that spotting between cycles is always a symptom of a serious health condition. As the UMMC explains, a recent operation or medical procedure involving the female reproductive system may cause spotting. An increase or decrease in hormone levels due to menopause or medication, like birth control pills, could also be the culprit. In fact, the cause of your spotting between cycles could simply be stress.
Warning
Don't panic but, spotting between cycles can indicate you have a serious health problem. The UMMC warns metrorrhagia is a symptom of many conditions related to the female reproductive system, including genital warts, vaginal infection, cancer, ectopic or problematic pregnancy, miscarriage and fibroid tumors.
Medical Examination
Make an appointment with your health professional--a gynecologist, if possible--to determine the cause of spotting between cycles. Be prepared to answer questions relating to the frequency and length of your regular menstrual periods and the date of your last menses. The Milton S. Hershey Medical Center explains that after reviewing your medical history, your doctor may perform a pelvic examination and possibly some diagnostic tests, including a blood draw and ultrasound. It is important to describe any pain or other symptoms you may have.
Treatment
The treatment prescribed for spotting between cycles is completely dependent on the cause. Due to the wide variety of health conditions that may be responsible, the treatment varies greatly. The Hershey Medical Center says medication is a common prescription for an infection or hormonal imbalance. Your doctor could recommend surgery as a form of treatment for fibroids or other growths.
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