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What's the difference?
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Paladin9 posted:
I usually have heavy cycles. I have had these since I started have cycles. Now that things are changing, I would like to know the difference between a light cycle and spotting. I am on a cycle now that is dark, thick and seems to just be clots. It is light enough in that I don't have to wear any feminine protection. I can go to the bathroom often enough and wipe it away. It never gets to my undergarments. What would you call this?
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Mary Jane Minkin, MD responded:
Dear Paladin9,
There really isn't a medical definition of spotting vs. a light cycle. If the bleeding goes on for a few days, and stops totally for several weeks, that is usually a good sign; in other words, less likely to be associate with something wrong with the lining of the uterus or cervix. As gynecologists, we tend to be more concerned about irregular spotting, or bleeding after sex.
Good luck,
Mary Jane


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