HomeAnswersObstetrics and GynecologyspottingI experience spotting despite a negative pregnancy test. Why?

Should I be concerned about on-and-off spotting despite negative pregnancy test results?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At March 17, 2024
Reviewed AtMarch 17, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have been experiencing on-and-off spotting for one month, which coincided with my fertile period. I was sexually active. Initially, it was light pink spotting for just one day. Later on, I noticed a pink discharge with brown and a bit of tiny blood. The spotting stopped, but two weeks later, I had a significant amount of brown and pink discharge, followed by heavy bleeding the next day. However, there is not much blood on my pad. A pregnancy test was negative, but I am still having pregnancy symptoms. Could there be a chance that I am pregnant? Please help.

Thank you.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

Spotting, or light vaginal bleeding, is a common symptom between menstrual cycles. It is unlikely to be pregnant, but I suggest a urine pregnancy test and a blood test (human chorionic gonadotropin).

Here are some things to consider:

  1. When did you take your pregnancy test? If it was too early in your menstrual cycle (before the expected time of implantation, typically around six to 12 days after ovulation), it may have been negative even if you are pregnant. I suggest waiting a few more days and taking another test to confirm your results.

  2. Have you experienced any other symptoms of pregnancy, such as nausea, fatigue, or breast tenderness? These symptoms can be indicative of early pregnancy, but they can also be caused by other factors, such as hormonal changes or stress.

  3. Have you had any recent vaginal infections or sexual activity that could be causing the spotting? If so, this could be a separate issue unrelated to pregnancy.

  4. Have you experienced any pain or cramping with the spotting? This could be a sign of implantation bleeding or an early miscarriage, but it could also be a sign of another underlying issue.

    I suggest answering these questions or at least sharing your urine pregnancy; getting a pregnancy test at home will help us understand if this is due to pregnancy or not.

    I hope this helps.

    Revert in case of other queries.

    Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Vandana Andrews
Dr. Vandana Andrews

General Practitioner

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Obstetrics and Gynecology

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy