Spotting after a period can happen for various reasons, including hormonal fluctuations, low progesterone, birth control effects, infections, and uterine conditions. Some common causes are:
- Low progesterone or luteal phase deficiency, where the hormone that stabilizes the uterine lining is insufficient.
- Changes or issues with birth control methods, which can lead to spotting due to hormone changes or physical effects from devices like IUDs.
- Sexual transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia or gonorrhea causing inflammation and spotting.
- Uterine polyps or fibroids—noncancerous growths in the uterus that can cause irregular bleeding or spotting.
- Ovulation spotting occurring mid-cycle but can sometimes appear after a period.
- Other factors like stress, thyroid problems, or perimenopause can also lead to spotting after menstruation.
If spotting is accompanied by other symptoms like pain, unusual discharge, or if it persists, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider to rule out infections or structural issues in the uterus.
