What is spotting?

Bleeding: Spotting is usually light menstrual bleed that occurs at a time other than your normal period. It can be due to pregnancy, hormonal variations and changes, occasionally stress, etc.

Call your OB doctor: Spotting (staining or bleeding) can mean different things depending on when in pregnancy it occurs. Early in pregnancy utering bleeding suggests a threatened abortion (medical term for miscarriage). Bleeding later can be caused by a placenta previa or abruption, both of which can threaten the life of mom and baby. Bleeding can also be from other sources. A woman must see an experienced OB to know.

See doctor: You should see your doctor first. In most cases there really is nothing you can do to make the spotting go away. Some women spot throughout the whole pregnancy.

Call your doctor.: It isn't uncommon to spot in pregnancy. Depending on the gestational age, it could be a sign of pre-term labor, however. You should ask your doctor if you need to be seen.

Menstral blood: Small quantities vaginal bleeding.