Spotting is light bleeding that is pink, red or brown in color. It is not uncommon to notice minor vaginal spotting when one is early days of pregnancy. It is suggested that spotting might happen at the time when the next period would have been due. Spotting can sometimes be accompanied with lower abdominal cramping and back pain.

What Causes Brown Spotting in Early Pregnancy?
There can be various reasons for early pregnancy spotting. The common reasons are listed as under:

• Implantation of Egg: One may notice spotting for three days 6-12 days after possible fertilization of egg. Some may also have heavy bleeding. The light bleeding can be due to implantation of egg into the uterine wall when the tissue surrounding the egg eats its way into the uterine lining (endometrium).
• Sexual Intercourse: Sometimes sexual intercourse can also be the cause of early pregnancy spotting when cervix becomes tender and sensitive.
• Vaginal Infection: Cervical or vaginal infection may be the underlying cause of brown spotting in early pregnancy.
• Ectopic Pregnancy: When the egg gets implanted in the fallopian tube, ovary or anywhere outside the uterus, this can cause early pregnancy spotting.
• Miscarriage: It is suggested that early pregnancy spotting can also be a sign of miscarriage. It is estimated that 20-30% women may have some sort of bleeding during early pregnancy. Miscarriage may happen any time during early pregnancy.

Pregnancy bleeding may be a sign of an underlying health problem that could turn out to be serious. In that case, you may want to consult with your doctor to ensure that you and your baby are safe and healthy.