What is spotting?

In the well-oiled process of a menstrual cycle, disruptions can often occur. And suddenly, the smooth-running machine gets thrown off. Light bleeding may appear well outside of your period. This is called spotting or intermenstrual bleeding. Spotting refers to any bleeding that happens outside your period. 

Spotting refers to the light bleeding you might experience outside of your period.

We’ve already talked about period underwear for managing light menstrual flow and spotting, as well as irregular periods and other menstrual cycle issues. However, we’ve never dedicated an article to intermenstrual bleeding.

What does spotting mean? What are the various reasons behind spotting? Should you be worried, or is it normal? For everything you need to know about spotting, read on!

The word spotting is English for "stains" or "spots." It refers to the spots you might see in your underwear from menstrual discharge. However, spotting specifically refers to bleeding or discharge that occurs outside of your period.

Quick reminder: In a well-regulated, 28-day menstrual cycle, your period comes at the very beginning and lasts between 4 and 7 days. After your period, you go through the follicular phase, then ovulation, and finally the luteal phase.

The bleeding we’re talking about—spotting—doesn’t happen during your period but at another point in the menstrual cycle. It’s definitely surprising and confusing the first time it happens.

Spotting is mainly characterized by its very light flow. These surprise bleeds are very minor, almost negligible. That's why we recommend the menstrual thong or the ultra-thin light flow period panty to absorb them and help you feel at ease.

Bleeding outside of your period is actually quite common. Many women experience it. However, these symptoms can go by different names. The term "metrorrhagia" refers to bleeding outside of your period caused by missed contraception, often a forgotten hormonal pill. In other cases, metrorrhagia can result from hormonal imbalances or certain conditions like endometriosis or PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome). Spotting is typically very light. It’s just a small amount that only leaves a trace in your underwear, which is why you might also hear the term "pink discharge." Pink discharge can appear after sex, during ovulation, or in the first weeks of pregnancy.

In any case, if you experience this type of discharge, we recommend avoiding disposable panty liners. These hygiene products may be ultra-thin and convenient, but they’re still polluting (packaging, plastic strips, etc.) and not safe for your health.

Just like with tampons and sanitary pads, the composition of panty liners has come under fire: harmful substances, petrochemical derivatives, chlorine, pesticides, and more. For your health and intimate well-being, always choose organic feminine hygiene products with clear and transparent ingredients. 

In most cases, spotting isn’t a cause for concern. It’s simply a new response from your body due to a hormonal imbalance. If the spotting is occasional and rare, there’s no need to worry. When is it normal and not alarming to experience spotting or intermenstrual bleeding?

During ovulation (the day in the middle of your menstrual cycle when the oocyte is released from your ovary), you might experience very light spotting. This is called ovulation spotting. It’s nothing serious. On the contrary, it lets you know exactly when you’re ovulating, which can help if you want to conceive. This way, you’ll know exactly which days you’re fertile. If you want to be sure, don’t hesitate to track your cycle.

It’s especially when starting a new form of birth control (IUD, pill, etc.) that you might notice some light spotting or bleeding. There’s no need to worry if these spots go away after a few days. If they persist, consult a doctor—this isn’t normal.

It’s also not unusual to notice spotting at the start of pregnancy. These light discharges are usually harmless and disappear by the end of the first trimester. However, if you have any doubts or experience pain, don’t hesitate to see a doctor, your gynecologist, or your midwife to make sure everything is okay. Because light bleeding during pregnancy can also be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy.

Spotting or intermenstrual bleeding can also be a warning sign. Your body may be experiencing a deeper issue that shouldn’t be ignored. Always pay attention to the signs and listen to your body. It’s important.

If spotting is recurring, or if it comes with pain or other symptoms, we recommend consulting a healthcare professional promptly. Spotting can happen for a variety of medical reasons:

• STI, Sexually Transmitted Infections,
• endometriosis,
• ectopic pregnancy,
• uterine fibroids,
• uterine polyp,
• ovarian cysts,
• uterine cancer.

If you’re ever unsure, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor or another healthcare professional. It’s always important to listen to your body so you can catch potential infections or more serious illnesses early.

In any case, you can always rely on our Mia light flow underwear and our Chloé light flow thong to keep you dry and protected. These two period underwear models are perfect for absorbing spotting, light bleeding, and vaginal discharge.

Thin, discreet, absorbent, and organic, these beautiful black lace panties have it all. They're lined with Oeko-Tex certified organic cotton, making them incredibly soft and super comfortable. They're a real pleasure to wear and put on. With one of our menstrual thongs, you’ll feel pretty and sexy, safe, and finally at ease. No more staining your regular underwear. 

The Chloé thong comes in sizes XS to XXL, while the Mia brief is available in XS or XL. At Louloucup, the more period underwear you add to your cart, the more you save. Our menstrual thongs already start at just €28.90, and the price drops even further with quantity.

With 5 menstrual products of your choice in your cart, your period thong drops from €28.90 to €22.90, so don’t hesitate to order your new washable and reusable period protection for a more peaceful and eco-friendly period.