Most women experience the phenomenon known as spotting at some point in their lives. Although we are often told that spotting is just 'old blood' or 'leftover blood,' this isn't always the case. Some medical conditions cause spotting and this can occur at anytime within the menstrual cycle. In addition to medical conditions, some medication may also cause spotting as a side-effect.
Mittelschmerz
During ovulation, the ovary releases an egg that is nurtured to maturity in a sack called a cyst. When this sack ruptures to release the egg, some women experience slight abdominal pain called mittelschmerz. Mittelschmerz is the German word for 'middle pain.'
In addition to this pain, some women experience dull abdominal aching, sharp abdominal pains that come on suddenly, mild vaginal bleeding or discharge. Women who have abnormal menstrual cycles can ovulate later than usual causing this pain to occur shortly before the start of a new menstrual cycle.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Polycystic ovary syndrome--also called PCOS-- is a condition that causes a woman to form various ovarian cysts due to hormonal imbalances. Although researchers are not certain what causes the initial hormonal imbalance, they have found a link between the irregularity in estrogen and an overproduction of the luteinizing hormone secreted by the pituitary gland.
In a normal menstrual cycle, the pituitary gland releases luteinizing and follicle-stimulating hormone to signal the ovaries to produce estrogen and progesterone. When this occurs, the ovary creates a small fluid-filled sack called a cyst, which nurtures the egg and is released during ovulation. Women with PCOS, have an over-abundance of the luteinizing hormone, which causes estrogen levels to fluctuate monthly.
This causes a disruption in ovulation and prevents the cyst from rupturing to release the egg. These cysts may accumulate, causing the ovary to have an enlarged feel and appearance, along with irregular menstrual bleeding, and spotting between menstrual periods.
Birth Control Side-Effects
Birth control pills are often prescribed to treat an imbalance in hormones, prevent ovarian cysts, treat acne, prevent ovulation or lighten heavy bleeding. Although birth control pills seem to combat these things, women often experience break-through bleeding when first beginning oral contraceptives. Dr. Marjorie Greenfield, Director of Obstetrics and Gynecology at website Dr.Spock says that this form of irregular bleeding will usually subside within four months.
Dr. Greenfield also says that it can take several months for the pill to successfully regulate hormone levels, causing this abnormal bleeding to stick around for at least four menstrual cycles. This bleeding may occur at any time while taking the pill. Long-term use of birth control pills may cause the uterine lining to become thinner, which may in turn cause early menstrual cycles or spotting. Neither of these conditions are dangerous.
