Is light spotting normal in early pregnancy?

Light spotting is relatively common and does not always mean miscarriage, but advice is still recommended because symptoms alone cannot show the cause.

Who should I call about pregnancy bleeding?

Before maternity care is established, contact a GP, early-pregnancy unit or NHS 111. Later in pregnancy, contact your maternity triage or unit directly.

Should I use a pad or tampon?

Use a pad so the amount can be monitored. Avoid tampons while bleeding in pregnancy unless a clinician advises otherwise.

Bleeding in pregnancy: When to See a GP

What could bleeding in pregnancy mean?

Bleeding in pregnancy is not always caused by a serious problem, but it should be assessed. Contact your maternity service, early-pregnancy unit, GP or NHS 111 according to your stage of pregnancy. Heavy bleeding, severe one-sided pain, shoulder-tip pain, dizziness or collapse requires emergency help.

Information to have ready

Tell the service how many weeks pregnant you are, whether the pregnancy location has been confirmed, the amount and colour of bleeding, any clots, pain, dizziness and your blood group if known.

Possible assessment

Depending on stage and symptoms, assessment can include examination, ultrasound, pregnancy-hormone blood tests and checking the baby’s heartbeat.

Do not rely on symptoms alone

Normal pregnancy, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy and placental problems can overlap. A professional assessment is the safe way to decide next steps.

Common questions about bleeding in pregnancy

Is light spotting normal in early pregnancy?: Light spotting is relatively common and does not always mean miscarriage, but advice is still recommended because symptoms alone cannot show the cause.
Who should I call about pregnancy bleeding?: Before maternity care is established, contact a GP, early-pregnancy unit or NHS 111. Later in pregnancy, contact your maternity triage or unit directly.
Should I use a pad or tampon?: Use a pad so the amount can be monitored. Avoid tampons while bleeding in pregnancy unless a clinician advises otherwise.

Sources

NHS — Vaginal bleeding in pregnancy

How we reviewed this page

Medically reviewed by the HealthAnswers UK doctor review panel

First published: 1 August 2026
Medically reviewed: 1 August 2026
Next review due: 1 August 2029 or sooner if NHS or NICE guidance changes

Written by HealthAnswers editorial team. Published by HealthAnswers (Elite Digital AI Solutions Ltd). How we review content · Report a problem with this page