A woman’s menstrual cycle typically lasts 25 to 30 days. During this time, bleeding will take place for roughly two to seven days. If bleeding occurs outside of this span, women’s health care providers refer to it as metrorrhagia, or spotting. Should you experience bleeding outside of your period, it’s important to schedule an appointment at your gynecology center to better understand the root cause. However, for many women, spotting is due to one of the following issues. 

3 Reasons Why You May Be Spotting Between Periods

1. Hormones

Your menstrual cycle is regulated by two hormones: estrogen and progesterone. When these hormones are out of balance, spotting can occur. This imbalance can be a result of a dysfunctional ovary or thyroid problems; however, many women’s health care clinics discuss this issue with patients who have recently started using birth control. Abnormal bleeding between periods is common when women begin using hormonal contraception including birth control pills, patches, or IUDs.

2. Polyps 

Polyps, or growths on the uterine wall, are formed by the overgrowth of endometrial tissue. They can be round or oval, and they range in size from a few millimeters to a few centimeters or larger. While most polyps are noncancerous, they can lead to uncomfortable symptoms like spotting or extremely heavy periods, so they should be monitored by a women’s health care clinic.

3. Menopause

Woman’s bodies typically begin to transition into menopause during their 40s. During this premenopausal period, you may experience symptoms such as hot flashes, mood changes, and changes in sexual function. Since hormone levels are adjusting, you can also experience irregular periods or spotting until your menstrual cycles begin to slow down. 

The Center for Women, led by OB-GYN Dr. J. Harley Barrow, Jr., is known throughout Baxter County and North Central Arkansas for providing friendly, modern women’s health care with a Christian mindset. With more than 17 years of experience and a dedicated support staff, you can trust this gynecology clinic with a variety of needs, from family planning to managing irregular periods. To schedule an appointment, call today at (870) 425-7300. For additional insight into this innovative local practice, visit their website. If you’re a current patient or you’re interested in hearing about first-hand experiences, leave or read reviews here.