Menstruation is a reproductive cycle that involves the shedding of the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium. Normal menstruation occurs every 21 to 35 days, depending on the individual, according to the Mayo Clinic. When bleeding occurs abnormally between periods, it is referred to as spotting. Spotting can signify an underlying medical condition so it is important to see a gynecologist when spotting occurs.
Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are benign growths that form on the uterus. The growths can range in size from microscopic to weighing several pounds and usually form in groups rather than individually, according to Medline Plus. The cause of uterine fibroids is unknown, but the hormone estrogen is believed to play a role in the formation of the growths. Symptoms of uterine fibroids include spotting, abdominal gas, frequent urination, heavy bleeding during menstruation, pelvic cramps, abdominal pressure and pain during sexual intercourse. If the fibroids are small, treatment may not be necessary and the fibroids will just be regularly monitored for growth. Hormone therapy may be used in an attempt to shrink the larger fibroids. If this is unsuccessful, surgery may be required. Surgical options include removal of the individual fibroids or a hysterectomy, which is the removal of the entire uterus.
Chlamydia
Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted disease that is caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, chlamydia is the most common bacterial sexually transmitted disease, and teenage girls and young women represent the highest risk group. Chlamydia can be transmitted through vaginal, oral or anal sex or from a mother to her baby during childbirth. Symptoms of chlamydia include spotting, discharge from the vagina or penis, burning during urination, abdominal pain, lower back pain, nausea, vomiting and pain during sexual intercourse. Chlamydia can be successfully treated with a series of antibiotics and abstinence until the infection is cleared up. If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to major health problems including serious infections and infertility.
Cervicitis
Cervicitis is the inflammation of the cervix, which is the long, narrow end of the uterus that opens into the vagina. Cervictis most commonly develops as a result of the sexually transmitted infections gonorrhea, chlamydia and genital herpes, but can also be a result of allergic reactions or overgrowth of bacteria, according to the Mayo Clinic. Oftentimes, cervicitis does not produce any symptoms, but when symptoms are present they include spotting, increased vaginal discharge, pain during sexual intercourse and painful urination. Treatment for cervicitis depends on the underlying cause. If the inflammation is due to a viral sexually transmitted infection, anti-viral medications are prescribed. If the inflammation occurs because of bacterial overgrowth, an anti-bacterial medication is given.
