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Breakthrough bleeding: Causes and Tips to Manage It

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Breakthrough bleeding: Causes and Tips to Manage It <Card-View>

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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?](#what-is-breakthrough-bleeding)
- [What are the causes of breakthrough bleeding?](#what-are-the-causes-of-breakthrough-bleeding)
- [Breakthrough bleeding vs Implantation bleeding](#breakthrough-bleeding-vs-implantation-bleeding)
- [How to manage breakthrough bleeding?](#how-to-manage-breakthrough-bleeding)
- [Treatment for Breakthrough bleeding](#treatment-for-breakthrough-bleeding)


What is breakthrough bleeding

<br>

*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](/tips-and-advice-for-girls-and-parents/period-guide/6-reasons-for-spotting-before-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. <br><br>
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. <br><br>
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 

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<h2 class="text-cobaltBlue">What is breakthrough bleeding?</h2>

What are the causes of breakthrough bleeding

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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.
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<h3 class="bluetext">1. Switching or using birth control - </h3>
<br>

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. 
<br>

<h3 class="bluetext">2. STIs or other inflammatory conditions - </h3>
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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.
<br>

<h3 class="bluetext">3. Fibroids, polyps and other noncancerous tumors - </h3> 
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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.


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<h2 class="text-cobaltBlue">What are the causes of breakthrough bleeding?</h2>

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PCOS

<h3 class="bluetext">4. PCOS - </h3>
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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.
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<h3 class="bluetext">5. Cancer of the reproductive system - </h3>
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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. 
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<h3 class="bluetext">6. Having a sensitive cervix - </h3>
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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.
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<h3 class="bluetext">7. Miscarriage or early pregnancy - </h3>
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Breakthrough bleeding during pregnancy as well as [spotting in the initial stages of pregnancy](/tips-and-advice-for-women/pregnancy/spotting-during-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.
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<h3 class="bluetext">8. Ectopic pregnancy - </h3>
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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

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Identifying whether any type of bleeding between your normal cycle is breakthrough bleeding or [implantation bleeding](/tips-and-advice-for-women/pregnancy/implantation-bleeding-should-you-worry-about-it) 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. </br>

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.


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<h2 class="text-cobaltBlue">Breakthrough bleeding vs Implantation bleeding</h2>

How to manage breakthrough bleeding

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<h2 class="text-cobaltBlue">How to manage breakthrough bleeding?</h2>

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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](/tampons) to manage the flow. The [ALWAYS Tampax Compak Tampons](/tampons/always-tampax-compak) 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](/panty-liners) in case you have a light discharge. The [ALWAYS Comfort Protect panty](/panty-liners/always-comfort-protect) 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](/sanitary-pads). [ALWAYS’ Maxi Thick Pads](/sanitary-pads/always-maxi-thick-pads-with-wings) 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

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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.

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When to call a doctor

<h2 class="text-cobaltBlue">When to call a doctor?</h2>

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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.

- <h3 class="bluetext" style="line-height: 20px" >Having pain in your lower abdomen</h3>
- <h3 class="bluetext" style="line-height: 20px" >Fever</h3>
- <h3 class="bluetext" style="line-height: 20px" >Symptoms that are frequent or get worse</h3>
- <h3 class="bluetext" style="line-height: 20px" >Any type of vaginal bleeding -- including spotting -- after you’ve gone through menopause</h3>
- <h3 class="bluetext" style="line-height: 20px" >If you feel light-headed</h3>
- <h3 class="bluetext" style="line-height: 20px" >Feel like fainting</h3>
- <h3 class="bluetext" style="line-height: 20px" >Skin appears unusually pale</h3>

Besides these, if you have persistent, heavy, or prolonged bleeding between periods or during one, you must make an appointment to get it checked.</br>

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](/tips-and-advice-for-girls-and-parents/period-guide/period-symptoms-signs-you-are-getting-your-period), causes of [irregular periods](/tips-and-advice-for-girls-and-parents/period-guide/what-causes-irregular-periods) and [what causes period pains](/tips-and-advice-for-girls-and-parents/period-guide/why-you-may-be-getting-heavy-painful-periods).

Stay well prepared for your next period by tracking it on Always [Period Calculator](/period-calculator).


__FAQs__
<br>

<h2 class="cardimgtexth2" style="color:#002abb">What do I need to know about breakthrough bleeding?</h2>
<br>

Breakthrough bleeding is when you experience bleeding between your regular period. It could either be full-on bleeding enough to need a tampon or pad, or it could be like spotting. The blood could either be light red or dark reddish brown, or like normal menstrual bleeding.
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<h2 class="cardimgtexth2" style="color:#002abb">How many days does breakthrough bleeding last?</h2>
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The length of breakthrough bleeding depends on the person and the cause of the bleeding. However, it should not last longer than seven days. Speak to a doctor is the bleeding lasts longer than seven days.
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<h2 class="cardimgtexth2" style="color:#002abb">Should I call my doctor if I have breakthrough bleeding?</h2>
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If you experience other symptoms such as pain in your lower abdomen, fever, light-headedness, prolonged or worsening of symptoms along with breakthrough bleeding then you must consult your doctor. 


Disclaimer

__Disclaimer:__<br>
Please note the date of last review or update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from your doctor or other qualified clinician. Always is committed to ensuring that all of our products meet rigorous safety standards; [Always pads prioritize safety](/about-us/inside-always-pads-safe), protection and comfort of its consumers. 


Breakthrough Bleeding – What is breakthrough bleeding and how do you know if you have it? This article explains breakthrough bleeding the causes and tips to manage it.