Noticing light spotting or bleeding in early pregnancy can be worrying, but it’s also more common than many people realise. While it’s always important to check with your midwife, light bleeding doesn’t always mean something is wrong. So what causes it, and when should you seek help? Let’s walk through everything you need to know.
What Is Light Spotting?
Spotting refers to small amounts of pink, red, or brown blood seen on toilet paper, underwear, or during wiping. It’s usually not enough to soak a pad or tampon and may come and go.
Light spotting is different from a heavy bleed, which could involve clots, cramps, or filling a pad. While any bleeding during pregnancy should be discussed with your midwife or GP, light spotting in the first trimester is relatively common, affecting around 20–25% of pregnant people.
Common Causes of Light Spotting in Early Pregnancy
Several non-serious causes of spotting occur in early pregnancy, particularly in the first 12 weeks.
1. Implantation Bleeding
This can occur around the time your period would’ve been due (typically between 6–12 days after conception). When the fertilised egg implants into the lining of the uterus, it can cause light spotting.
Implantation bleeding is usually light pink or brown and doesn’t last more than a few days.
2. Hormonal Changes
Pregnancy hormones like oestrogen and progesterone can affect the cervix and uterine lining, sometimes making you more prone to light bleeding, especially around the time your period would normally come.
3. Cervical Sensitivity
The cervix becomes more sensitive and has increased blood flow in pregnancy. Spotting can happen after:
- Vaginal examinations
- Intercourse
- Exercise
This type of spotting is usually harmless, but still worth mentioning to your midwife.
4. Infection
Sometimes spotting can be due to a vaginal infection, like thrush or bacterial vaginosis. These don’t usually affect the pregnancy but may need treatment.
If you notice unusual discharge, itching, or discomfort, speak to your healthcare provider.
When Spotting Could Be a Concern
While light spotting can be normal, it’s essential to know when bleeding might signal something more serious.
Contact your midwife or GP immediately if you experience:
- Heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad)
- Bright red blood with clots
- Severe abdominal or pelvic pain
- Dizziness, fainting, or shoulder tip pain
- Lower back pain that doesn't go away
These symptoms could indicate:
1. Miscarriage
Sadly, some early pregnancies end in miscarriage - most commonly in the first 12 weeks. Bleeding with strong cramps, backache, and tissue passing from the vagina may be signs.
However, light spotting alone is not a definite sign of miscarriage. Many people go on to have healthy pregnancies after bleeding in the first trimester.
2. Ectopic Pregnancy
This occurs when a fertilised egg implants outside the uterus—most commonly in the fallopian tube. It can be life-threatening if not treated early.
Signs of ectopic pregnancy may include:
- One-sided lower abdominal pain
- Shoulder tip pain
- Vaginal bleeding
- Feeling dizzy or faint
If you suspect this, call your early pregnancy unit or go to A&E immediately.
What Should I Do If I See Spotting?
It’s always best to get checked out, even if the bleeding seems light. Your midwife or GP might:
- Ask about your symptoms and when they started
- Offer a pelvic examination
- Refer you to an Early Pregnancy Unit (EPU) for an ultrasound scan
- Check your hCG hormone levels with a blood test
Reassurance is a big part of early pregnancy care. You’re not wasting anyone’s time - and it’s better to get clarity than sit with anxiety.
How Does Spotting Affect My Baby?
In most cases, light spotting has no lasting impact on your baby. Your uterus is designed to protect and nourish your growing baby, and they are cushioned within the amniotic sac.
Unless the spotting is heavy or part of another condition, it’s unlikely to cause harm. That said, it’s always important to monitor any bleeding and communicate with your maternity team.
Midwife’s Top Tips
- Don’t panic. Light spotting in early pregnancy is often normal, but always worth mentioning.
- Keep track. Note the colour, amount, and whether it happens after specific activities (e.g., sex).
- Use a panty liner, not a tampon. Never insert anything vaginally during pregnancy unless advised.
- Rest and hydrate. Listen to your body and avoid over-exertion.
- Call your midwife if spotting increases, becomes bright red, or is accompanied by pain.
Spotting in early pregnancy can be a shock, but it’s not always a sign that something is wrong. Many people experience light bleeding in the first trimester and go on to have healthy, full-term pregnancies.
The most important thing is to trust your instincts, stay informed, and reach out to your midwife or GP for reassurance and support. Early pregnancy can be full of questions - you're not alone in asking them.
