What is spotting? The term "spotting" usually refers to light bleeding that occurs outside of your normal period.

When does it happen? You might have spotting a week before your period, after sex, or even during ovulation.

Spotting after sex: what does it indicate?

- Friction and damage to the vaginal mucosa and cervix during sex, caused by dryness and lack of lubrication
- Vaginal and cervical inflammation
- Sexually transmitted infections
- Endometriosis

What causes it?

- Hormone-based birth control
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia
- Uterine fibroids or polyps
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Perimenopause

When should I see a doctor? You should see a doctor if you have unexplained spotting between periods. Although it may be nothing to worry about and may go away on its own, it could also be a sign of something serious.