Spotting in your menstrual phase

Spotting is light bleeding or brown discharge outside your main period flow. In your menstrual phase it tends to flare because estrogen and progesterone bottom out and prostaglandins rise to shed the uterine lining, which can bring on spotting.

What's happening in your menstrual phase

Estrogen and progesterone are at their lowest. Energy dips and your body wants rest, warmth, and iron-rich, easy-to-digest food.

What to eat

How to move

no special movement is needed; keep your usual gentle routine.

Quick relief

  • Occasional light spotting around ovulation can be normal.
  • Support iron stores with iron-rich food.
  • Track the pattern, and see a clinician if it is new, heavy, or persistent.

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Frequently asked questions

Why do I get spotting in my menstrual phase?

In your menstrual phase, estrogen and progesterone bottom out and prostaglandins rise to shed the uterine lining, which can bring on spotting.

What should I eat for spotting?

Foods that help include spinach, beets, lentils, eggs.