A woman’s menstrual cycle can vary from person to person. However, shedding may last 3 to 7 days during the cycle. It is normal to experience some spotting between periods. But non-menstrual spotting can have many causes. Many women get confused between periods and spotting. Although both involve the vagina, these are different processes. So let’s see here what are the differences between the two.
Bleeding on non-menstrual days
It is important to distinguish between menstrual or other types of vaginal bleeding. Irregular bleeding especially during non-menstrual period should be noted. Although it is irregular, it is common to notice spotting caused by ovulation events in the menstrual cycle. There are many reasons why this spotting occurs between menstrual periods. However these are often not a cause for concern.
What is the menstrual cycle?
The menstrual cycle is characterized by the shedding of the lining of the uterus. Itnaal causes blood and tissue flow. Menstrual bleeding can be heavy rather than spotting. It will last for a few days. Average is 3 to 7 days. And menstrual discharge is usually bright red to dark brown in color.
What is menstruation like?
Menstrual regulars on a regular schedule can tell the difference between periods and spotting right away.
Menstrual shedding first starts with spotting and gradually becomes heavier. Then it gradually decreases and ends with dots.
It lasts for 3 to 7 days. Not all month.
Menstrual bleeding is often accompanied by other symptoms.
Hormonal changes before menstruation can cause symptoms such as breast tenderness and headaches.
Cramps occur as the uterus contracts and bleeds out the wall. It ranges from moderate to severe.
Blood is red. Although initially brown, it can be distinguished.
Large lumps or blood may appear as fluid. It will have less points.
Non-menstrual amenorrhea symptoms
Each woman may be different.
Irregular periods can cause some women’s bleeding to stop and start again. Some women have spotting throughout the month.
These unexplained spotting are irregular, even if they are associated with a predictable menstrual cycle. But spotting can occur during ovulation.
Some women experience this one or two days each month during ovulation.
May be associated with injuries or other symptoms.
A different color is that the blood from the spotting is lighter for some people.
May be associated with hormonal contraceptives.
How to tell the difference between menstrual bleeding and spotting?
Differentiating between spotting and shedding is important to understanding overall health. Although these are harmless, it is advisable to consult a doctor if you have persistent abnormal bleeding.
Factors such as timing, duration, color and nature of bleeding can also tell the difference by feeling the symptoms like abdominal pain during discharge and foul smelling discharge. But vaginal discharge after menopause can indicate a serious health problem.
Why is it important to observe both menstrual and non-menstrual cycles?
The difference between menstruation and shedding is not easy to discern. But a closer look reveals that identifying menstrual cycles and non-shedding gives them the power to control their reproductive health. Knowing the difference between spotting and menstruation can help predict an accurate diagnosis early on.
So it is better to talk to the doctor if there is an unexpected shedding. Doctors will determine whether the bleeding is normal or a symptom of an underlying condition and treat it immediately if necessary.
