While women's menstrual cycles can change from month to month for a number of reasons, including weight loss or strenuous exercise, an early period accompanied by spotting can also indicate hormonal irregularities, an ovarian cyst, menopause or pregnancy. Medline Plus, a health information service provided by the U.S. National Library of Medicine, urges women experiencing abnormal vaginal bleeding to make an appointment with their primary care providers to look into the causes of the bleeding and to determine an appropriate course of treatment.
Significance
For some women, slight bleeding or spotting a bit around the time their period is due--or slightly earlier--is an early indication of pregnancy. According to MayoClinic.com, this bleeding happens when the fertilized egg attaches itself, or implants, in the lining of the uterus about 10 to 14 days after ovulation. The bleeding will normally remain light, rarely filling up a pad or tampon, and will stop after a few days. Bleeding that fills several pads or tampons usually indicates you are not pregnant, according to the American Pregnancy Association.
Identification
If you suspect your early "period" might indicate pregnancy, take a home test as soon as possible and, if positive, schedule an appointment with your doctor to confirm the pregnancy. Make sure you mention the bleeding to your doctor. The American Pregnancy Association states that of the estimated 25 to 30 percent of women who have some bleeding in early pregnancy, half of these women will experience a normal pregnancy and birth while the other half will miscarry. Your doctor can determine whether your bleeding and spotting is "normal" or if it indicates a problem with the pregnancy.
Considerations
The timing of ovulation--when your ovary releases a mature egg--can vary from cycle to cycle. Some women experience light spotting during ovulation, making it possible that your early "period" and spotting might indicate delayed ovulation. Watch for the symptom in future cycles and mention it to your doctor at your next physical exam.
Warning
Ovarian cysts, fluid-filled sacs or pockets located on the surface of an ovary, can cause menstrual irregularities, including spotting and an early--or late--period. While most cysts are benign and disappear without treatment, others can cause serious symptoms, which might jeopardize your overall health. Other indications of a cyst include pelvic pain, pain during intercourse or pain or pressure in your rectum or abdomen. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any signs of a cyst accompanied by sudden abdominal pain or pain with fever or vomiting.
Potential
Many women start to experience abnormal menstrual bleeding, including spotting between cycles and long--or short--cycles when they enter menopause. Menopause transition, when your body adjusts to the hormone fluctuations that come with the cessation of ovulation, can last from 2 to 8 years. While menopause usually occurs between the ages of 45 to 55, it can happen earlier after surgery, medical treatment or illness.
