Bleeding or spotting outside of your period can be a cause for concern. Especially if it occurs in the middle of your cycle, when ovulation usually occurs. What exactly can cause ovulation bleeding, how to recognize it, and when should you see a doctor? Read on to find out what you need to know about it.
How do I know when I'm ovulating?
Ovulation is the process by which a mature egg is released from the ovary. The egg then travels through the fallopian tube toward the uterus, preparing for possible fertilization by sperm. Ovulation usually occurs in the middle of the menstrual cycle, most often between 12 and 16 days before the start of the next period. ( 1 )
Spotting or light bleeding can be one of the signs of ovulation. ( 2 ):
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ovulation bleeding
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increased libido
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tightness or mild pain on one side of the lower abdomen
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clear, slippery, and stringyvaginal discharge similar to raw egg white
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increase in basal body temperature just after ovulation (can be verified retrospectively)
Why do I bleed during ovulation?
Ovulation spotting occurs around the time of ovulation, when an egg is released from the ovary. Hormonal fluctuations, especially the rise in estrogen and luteinizing hormone and the subsequent drop in progesterone, can cause partial shedding of the uterine lining, which can manifest as light spotting. ( 3 )
Ovulation spotting is relatively rare, estimated to occur in about 5% of menstruating women. ( 4 ) However, it doesn’t necessarily occur every cycle, and in many cases, it’s so light that you may not even notice it.
What does ovulation bleeding look like?
You can tell that spotting or light bleeding is related to ovulation by several typical signs:
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Ovulation bleeding usually lasts only 1 to 2 days and appears as a few drops of blood. Therefore, there is no need to use regular menstrual aids, a panty liner is enough for a feeling of cleanliness or security .
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Ovulation bleeding is usually pink or light red in color. The blood often mixes with cervical mucus, which is produced more during ovulation, which affects the resulting color and consistency of the fluid.
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Bleeding occurs around the time of ovulation, which is roughly halfway through your menstrual cycle—about 12 to 16 days before your expected period. However, the exact timing varies depending on the length and regularity of your cycle.
Ovulation spotting or implantation bleeding?
Bleeding or spotting outside of menstruation can have a variety of causes; for example, you may experience it after sex, shortly before your period starts, or even early in pregnancy. About a quarter of women experience bleeding when a fertilized egg successfully implants in the lining of the uterus. This is called implantation bleeding .
Because ovulation and implantation bleeding both present in similar ways—light spotting outside of your period—it can sometimes be difficult to tell which type is which. So how can you tell them apart?
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Ovulation bleeding can occur around the time of ovulation, around day 12 to 16 of the cycle. It is often accompanied by other symptoms of ovulation, such as increased libido, tension or mild pain on one side of the lower abdomen, and increased cervical mucus.
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Implantation bleeding, on the other hand, occurs 6 to 14 days after fertilization, which is more likely when you start expecting your period. Along with the bleeding, you may also experience early pregnancy symptoms such as more frequent urination, morning sickness, or breast tenderness.
Knowing your cycle well is key to recognizing ovulation bleeding. There are a number of methods for tracking ovulation and determining the fertile period, the most accurate of which is the symptothermal method , which combines basal body temperature measurement, cervical mucus monitoring, and other physical signs.
Other possible causes
Spotting or bleeding in the middle of your cycle may not always be related to ovulation or implantation. There are a variety of causes, from normal hormonal fluctuations to medical conditions. Possible causes include endometriosis, uterine fibroids, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), sexually transmitted infections, taking certain medications, or a reaction to a new hormonal contraceptive. If you notice unusual bleeding that is different from your normal cycle, or if you have other worrying symptoms, contact your doctor to prevent problems early.
What else can you read on the Femspace blog?
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Can I get pregnant from… Myths, facts and what every woman should know about her cycle
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How to postpone menstruation for vacation and is it even safe?
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