After an intense workout session, experiencing things like muscle cramps or a runny nose isn’t too uncommon. However, you may be surprised to discover some bloody discharge or spotting in your underwear or workout pants.
Below, we'll explain what spotting is, why it may be happening, and when it's time to see a doctor.
What Is Vaginal Spotting?
Spotting refers to any vaginal bleeding you may experience in between your normal monthly menstrual period, according to Mount Sinai Health System. It's common for vaginal bleeding to be any shade of pink, red, or brown, notes Cleveland Clinic. Also, the blood you see typically isn't as heavy as your regular period.
Aside from exercise (which we'll talk more about below), there are many factors that can cause spotting, including:
- Pregnancy
- Birth control
- Cervical infection
- Cervical polyp
- Cervical cancer
- Endometrial cancer
- Sexually transmitted infection (STI)
- Menopause
What Causes Spotting After Exercise?
Spotting after exercise may be caused by irritation, a uterine polyp, or stress.
1. Vaginal Irritation
The skin around your vagina is very sensitive. So if you use any scented soaps, wipes, lotions, or any other products to block odor after your workout, this could cause irritation that can lead to vaginal discharge and spotting, according to Cleveland Clinic.
Also, the combination of certain clothing and your chosen activity could create friction, which can be a potential cause of vaginal bleeding. When choosing your underwear or workout pants, it's best to go for moisture-wicking fabrics that won't chafe, like spandex, nylon, wool, polyester, bamboo, rayon, or latex, according to the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA).
2. Uterine Polyp
Uterine polyps are growths that develop on the inner lining of the uterus that cause abnormal bleeding, including spotting between periods, according to Cleveland Clinic.
Spotting from a uterine polyp can happen at any time, including after exercise. Additionally, while uncommon, uterine polyps can prolapse into the vagina, in which case friction or irritation from exercise can also cause bleeding.
3. Stress
Putting your body under a lot of stress — like over-exercising, restricting your calories, or a combo of the two — can cause an irregular period according to Cleveland Clinic, which can include spotting (or even the loss of your period altogether).
Too much stress can mess with your hormones and menstrual cycle because when your body is in a constant state of duress, it conserves energy for the most basic functions like breathing and digesting food.
When to See a Doctor About Spotting After Exercise
While spotting isn't always an indication something's wrong, it's best to make an appointment with your doctor to confirm the reason for it. You and your doctor can work together to better understand what's causing your spotting, how to treat it, and if additional medical attention may be needed.
Additionally, if you're experiencing symptoms like severe or prolonged abdomen pain after exercise or blood in your urine after exercise that isn't your period (called exercise-induced hematuria), it's important to seek medical attention right away. These may be signs of a more serious condition.
Prevention and Treatment for Spotting After Exercise
To prevent vaginal bleeding after exercise, it's important to take into consideration the types of clothing you're wearing, the intensity and duration in which you're exercising, and how much recovery and fuel you're getting.
The treatment for spotting after exercise depends on the underlying cause, so it's important to talk to your doctor to narrow it down and come up with a plan.
