Spotting, or menstrual bleeding that occurs between your regular periods, can happen for a number of reasons, according to MedlinePlus. Stress, eating disorders, excessive exercise, and extreme weight loss can all cause menstrual irregularities, Kaiser Permanente says. These irregularities can include spotting, cycle length changes, or a lack of periods altogether.
Significance
Spotting isn’t uncommon, and it can range from a small amount of blood in vaginal discharge to a heavy, period-like flow, the Cleveland Clinic says. Aside from spotting due to weight loss, excessive exercise, and eating disorders, many young women have irregular periods, including breakthrough bleeding. It’s also common in menopause if you take hormone replacement therapy. You should always talk to your doctor about breakthrough bleeding between periods, as it can indicate more serious health issues as well.
Spotting can occur due to hormonal changes. These hormonal fluctuations can be due to your body’s response to stress, whether it’s from excessive exercise, a restrictive diet, or an eating disorder, the Cleveland Clinic says.
When Periods Stop
Rapid or significant weight loss may also lead your periods to stop. This is called amenorrhea, according to UCHealth, a healthcare system affiliated with the University of Colorado. Amenorrhea is often caused by eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia, stress, and over-exercising.
Prevention and Solutions
Lifestyle adjustments may prevent menstrual irregularities related to weight loss, the Cleveland Clinic says. Eating a balanced diet, sticking to a moderate exercise plan, and losing weight gradually can all help prevent spotting between periods. Prioritizing sleep and finding ways to manage stress can also help. Medication is an option in some cases, typically those related to medical conditions.
Medical Concerns
Spotting between periods may indicate medical problems such as endometriosis, a thyroid or pituitary gland disorder, polycystic ovary syndrome, or even cancer, the Cleveland Clinic says. Spotting can also be a side effect of contraceptives. It’s especially common in the first three months of starting hormonal birth control, whether it’s a pill, a patch, an intrauterine device, or another type, the Cleveland Clinic says. Contact your doctor if you have any unexplained bleeding between periods.
Track Symptoms
If you have spotting or other vaginal bleeding that is not normal for you, start a menstrual diary or use an app made for tracking periods, Kaiser Permanente says. Noting the dates and lengths of your periods and spotting (along with any other symptoms) can help your healthcare provider identify the exact cause of your between-period bleeding.
It’s best to lose no more than one to two pounds per week, advises the Mayo Clinic. A successful weight loss program is based on a healthy, reduced-calorie diet combined with moderate exercise.
Tell your doctor if you are prone to binge eating, severe calorie restriction, or if you exercise excessively. If your approach to weight loss has been overly restrictive or rapid, you may also benefit from therapy with a licensed mental health professional.
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