Bleeding between periods
Overview
Bleeding between periods, also known as intermenstrual bleeding, refers to vaginal bleeding that occurs outside of a woman's regular menstrual cycle. This abnormal bleeding can range from light spotting to heavier flow and may indicate various underlying health conditions that require medical evaluation.
Common Causes
This can happen due to hormonal fluctuations during your menstrual cycle, especially around ovulation when estrogen levels change. Birth control methods like pills, patches, or IUDs commonly cause breakthrough bleeding as your body adjusts to different hormone levels. Stress, significant weight changes, intense exercise, or disrupted sleep patterns can also affect your hormone balance and trigger irregular bleeding. Additionally, certain medications, particularly blood thinners or hormonal treatments, may contribute to bleeding between periods.
Severity Levels
Mild: Light spotting that occurs occasionally between periods, lasting only a day or two, with no associated pain or other symptoms.
Moderate: Regular bleeding between periods that is heavier than spotting, may last several days, or is accompanied by mild cramping or discomfort.
Severe: Heavy bleeding between periods that soaks through pads or tampons, occurs frequently, lasts more than a few days, or is accompanied by severe pain, dizziness, or fatigue.
Medical Attention
Contact your healthcare provider if bleeding between periods occurs frequently, lasts more than a few days, or is accompanied by severe pain, fever, or heavy flow. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience sudden, severe bleeding or if you might be pregnant. It's also important to schedule an appointment if this is a new symptom for you or if it's interfering with your daily activities.
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