Health Tip: Spotting Between Menstrual Periods

(HealthDay News) -- A regular menstrual cycle comes about every 28 days. Some women experience spotting between menstrual cycles.

Because spotting can be a sign of a serious problem, you should see your doctor if you have it. The U.S. National Library of Medicine lists these common causes of spotting between menstrual cycles:

• Cancer of the cervix, uterus or sometimes fallopian tubes.
• Side effect certain procedures, including a biopsy of the cervix or endometrial lining.
• A miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or other complication of pregnancy.
• Fibroids or polyps in the uterus.
• Fluctuating hormone levels.
• Use of an IUD.
• A vaginal injury.
• Starting or stopping birth control pills or other hormones, or using blood thinners.
• Stress, underactive thyroid, or postmenopausal vaginal dryness.

-- Diana Kohnle

Last Updated: Feb. 12, 2009

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