When Spotting is Abnormal

Seek prompt medical attention if you're bleeding:

After Menopause
Vaginal bleeding may be something to worry about for women above age 50. The risk of malignancy increases with age.

During Pregnancy
Minimal spotting may be normal, but any bleeding during pregnancy should be evaluated by your physician. Heavy vaginal bleeding or bleeding that occurs before 12 weeks may indicate a serious problem, including an ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage. Heavy vaginal bleeding or bleeding that occurs after 12 weeks may indicate a serious problem, such as placenta previa.

Other Tell-tale Signs of Abnormal Spotting

• Very frequent spotting between periods
• Bleeding between periods lasting more than 3 days
• Menstrual pattern not returning to normal by the third month
• Painful bleeding between periods
• Very heavy intermenstrual bleeding. One or more sanitary napkins or tampons per hour for more than 4 hours.