But what about spotting before your period even begins?

Is that normal, or something to be concerned about?

10 causes of spotting before your period

1.

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Especially when youre starting a new method or switching types, she adds.

The easiest way to tell if thats whats causing your spotting?

Take a home pregnancy test, recommendsKelly Culwell, MD, a board-certified OB/GYN in San Diego, California.

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board-certified physician in obstetrics and gynecology

That might mean your periods are closer together, further apart, or happen with some spotting in between.

You should let your doctor know if you think you have a fibroid or polyp.

Small ones may just need to be monitored, and sometimes they go away on their own.

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Its often cervicitisa cervical infection marked by inflammation, Dr. Culwell says.

The best way to determine what youre dealing with, and figure out how to treat it?

Get in to see your doctor.

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Heres How I Finally Figured It Out

8.

One of the most common is polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS.

Thyroid condition

Your thyroidthe small, butterfly-shaped gland in your neckplays a key role in regulating your periods.

pregnant person with long brown hair in a black tank top and pants and flowy tan overshirt looking at their baby clothes and awaiting birth, to show concept of superfetation pregnancy

board-certified physician in obstetrics and gynecology

The result can be spotting or missed periods, Dr. Guichard says.

Symptoms of thyroid conditions can vary depending on whether youre making too much or too little of the hormone.

Your doctor can prescribe antibiotics to get the infection under control.

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Thatll ensure your hormone levels stay relatively stable, which will help preventbreakthrough bleeding.

FAQ

What does pregnancy spotting look like?

If you think thats whats causing your spotting, a home pregnancy test can help confirm.

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Why do I feel like I have a period but no blood?

Again, a home pregnancy test can give you a quick yes or no!

If youre not pregnant, its possible youre dealing with PMS cramping before your actual period begins.

When to worry about spotting?

Occasional random spotting isnt usually a big deal.

Reach out to your OB/GYN if youre unsure.

They can help get to the root cause of your spotting.

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