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What Causes Spotting And Delayed Periods?
Hi, I had a bit of spotting just for 2 days, 2 weeks before my period was due (very light). My period is now 12 days late. I have done a few tests but all have been negative. Yesterday I started spotting again. Today it has been a little heavier (still not as heavy as my periods are) with a little stomach cramp, and there was a small blood clot. My periods have always been regular so it is very unusual for it to be this late. My husband and I have been trying for a baby for 6 months. Do you think it is a late period, or could I be miscarrying? Thankyou
Thu, 28 May 2020
Hi,
According to your description, it is difficult to tell whether it is delayed period or miscarriage. The factors favorable for delayed period are:
-In the middle of the cycle spotting can be seen during ovulation.
-Sometimes fluctuations in the menstrual cycles can be seen due to different reasons ranging from psychological to hormonal.
-Pregnancy test is negative.
-You started having bleeding.
The factors favorable for miscarriage are:
-You are not using any contraception.
-Previous cycles were regular.
-Sometimes urine pregnancy test kit can give false negative results.
You better go for blood test for pregnancy, which can give a more accurate diagnosis compared with urine test. If the beta HCG levels are above 5 mIU/mL, it is more possible miscarriage, above 25 mIU/mL is confirmation of miscarriage. If less than 5 mIU/mL, it is delayed period.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Sree Gouri S. R., OBGYN
According to your description, it is difficult to tell whether it is delayed period or miscarriage. The factors favorable for delayed period are:
-In the middle of the cycle spotting can be seen during ovulation.
-Sometimes fluctuations in the menstrual cycles can be seen due to different reasons ranging from psychological to hormonal.
-Pregnancy test is negative.
-You started having bleeding.
The factors favorable for miscarriage are:
-You are not using any contraception.
-Previous cycles were regular.
-Sometimes urine pregnancy test kit can give false negative results.
You better go for blood test for pregnancy, which can give a more accurate diagnosis compared with urine test. If the beta HCG levels are above 5 mIU/mL, it is more possible miscarriage, above 25 mIU/mL is confirmation of miscarriage. If less than 5 mIU/mL, it is delayed period.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Sree Gouri S. R., OBGYN
I find this answer helpful
Hi,
I would suggest you to take blood beta hCG test to detect pregnancy since it is a very sensitive test. Pelvic ultrasound may be required if the pain and bleeding are severe. Polycystic ovaries and hypothyroidism and uterine pathologies can cause spotting and hence should be ruled out.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Saranya Ramadoss, General & Family Physician
I would suggest you to take blood beta hCG test to detect pregnancy since it is a very sensitive test. Pelvic ultrasound may be required if the pain and bleeding are severe. Polycystic ovaries and hypothyroidism and uterine pathologies can cause spotting and hence should be ruled out.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Saranya Ramadoss, General & Family Physician
I find this answer helpful
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