Bleeding in between your periods: Top causes of breakthrough bleeding
If you’re someone who knows exactly when to expect your period, or if not exactly then at least have a general idea, then breakthrough bleeding will definitely throw you off guard. So, what is breakthrough bleeding?
What is breakthrough bleeding?
Breakthrough bleeding is bleeding that you experience between your regular period. It could either be full-on bleeding, enough to need a tampon or pad, or it could be like spotting before your periods. The blood is usually either light red or dark reddish brown, similar to the kind of bleeding your experience at the beginning or end of a period. However, it could also look like normal menstrual blood depending on the cause.
How long breakthrough bleeding lasts typically depends on the cause and varies person-to-person. However, it should not last longer than seven days. Women who use hormonal birth control pills are more likely to experience breakthrough bleeding.
Most often, it is nothing to be worried about. However, there are times when breakthrough bleeding may be an indication of an underlying medical condition. It
What are the causes of breakthrough bleeding?
You may experience spotting in between your periods due to various reasons ranging from using certain contraception pills to having a sensitive cervix. Let us first understand the various breakthrough bleeding causes.
1. Switching or using birth control -
If you’re using birth control that contains hormones you may experience spotting between period during the first three months of using it. These extra hormones are responsible for the changes in the lining of your uterus. An intrauterine device (IUD) – hormonal or copper – may also cause changes to your menstrual cycle.
2. STIs or other inflammatory conditions -
Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs), like chlamydia or gonorrhea can also cause breakthrough bleeding. Other inflammatory conditions such as infection of the cervix or lining of your uterus, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), cervicitis, vaginitis, etc. can also result in breakthrough bleeding.
3. Fibroids, polyps and other noncancerous tumors -
There are certain noncancerous tumors that grow in the lining or muscle of the uterus such as fibroids or polyps. While some women don’t show any symptoms, others experience symptoms such as breakthrough bleeding, heavy periods, constipation and pelvic pain among others.
4. PCOS -
If you have Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), your ovaries don’t release eggs the way they should. This results in ovaries that become enlarged with fluid-filled sacs surrounding your eggs. This could lead to irregular periods, spotting, or no period.
5. Cancer of the reproductive system -
Having any cancers of the reproductive system such as uterine cancer can cause breakthrough bleeding. It is common among women who’ve already gone through menopause.
6. Having a sensitive cervix -
Sometimes, though, you may experience spotting or bleeding between cycles or during pregnancy if you have a sensitive cervix as it gets easily irritated. This is especially true during pregnancy when the cervix becomes soft and may bleed after a vaginal exam or intercourse.
7. Miscarriage or early pregnancy -
Breakthrough bleeding during pregnancy as well as spotting in the initial stages of pregnancy is quite common. At times, it could mean a miscarriage, which typically naturally occurs in the first 20 weeks of pregnancy. However, even heavy bleeding does not always result in a miscarriage. When it comes to pregnancy, if you notice any bleeding at any time, it is important that consult a doctor immediately.
8. Ectopic pregnancy -
Having an ectopic pregnancy could also lead to bleeding. An ectopic pregnancy is when a fertilised egg implants itself into tissue outside of your uterus. Abdominal pain, pelvic discomfort, and sudden dizziness are some of the symptoms associated with ectopic pregnancy. It is important to get immediate medical help if you suspect an ectopic pregnancy.
Breakthrough bleeding vs Implantation bleeding
Identifying whether any type of bleeding between your normal cycle is breakthrough bleeding or implantation bleeding is difficult. Implantation bleeding is when you experience any bleeding or spotting 10 to 14 days after a fertilised egg had attached itself onto the uterus lining. Not all women experience this. Both types of bleeding may happen between normal menstrual cycles and the flow for both may be light enough to not require a tampon or pad. The main difference is that breakthrough bleeding can happen at any time, whereas implantation bleeding only happens a few days before a missed period.
The most precise way to distinguish between the two is by taking a home pregnancy test. You could also visit your doctor for a blood test.
How to manage breakthrough bleeding?
If you have bleeding of any kind, it is important to be able to manage it. You have the option of either using a tampon or a sanitary pad to manage the bleeding, depending on the cause. You may use a tampon to manage the flow. The ALWAYS Tampax Compak Tampons is a good choice as it comes with a smooth, compact applicator for discretion, and a built-in protective skirt to help prevent leakage for up to 8 hours. Also, depending on the flow you could opt for a panty liner in case you have a light discharge. The ALWAYS Comfort Protect panty liner has an innovatively discreet design that is flexible and reliable. It has a unique odour neutralising technology that keeps you confident and secure all day.
If you suspect the bleeding is due to a miscarriage, it’s best to use a sanitary pad. ALWAYS’ Maxi Thick Pads are designed with an innovative extra-absorbent core, so that you stay protected for hours at a stretch. The comfortable flexi pillow and dry top sheet offer extra comfort and protection. Do ensure that you visit a doctor at the earliest if you suspect you are going through a miscarriage.
Treatment for Breakthrough Bleeding
The treatment for breakthrough bleeding varies on the cause of it. For instance, if contraception is the reason why, then your doctor may recommend an alternative. While for infections, antibiotics and topical ointments might be prescribed. For an ectopic pregnancy, a surgery may be required. And if the bleeding is due to a miscarriage, a doctor may perform a procedure called a dilation and curettage, to remove tissue.
When to call a doctor?
This may sound tricky because usually spotting between periods is typically considered normal and safe. So how do you know when it’s a reason to worry. Don’t worry, the below symptoms may help you identify. If you experience those along with spotting or bleeding, it is essential that you contact your doctor.
Having pain in your lower abdomen
Fever
Symptoms that are frequent or get worse
Any type of vaginal bleeding -- including spotting -- after you’ve gone through menopause
If you feel light-headed
Feel like fainting
Skin appears unusually pale
Besides these, if you have persistent, heavy, or prolonged bleeding between periods or during one, you must make an appointment to get it checked.
Although breakthrough bleeding is usually not a cause for concern, one must be observant and watch out for other symptoms or frequency. Talk to your doctor if you suspect anything unusual.
Read more about period symptoms, causes of irregular periods and what causes period pains.
Stay well prepared for your next period by tracking it on Always Period Calculator.
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