Nishmat's Women’s Health and HalachaIn memory of Chaya Mirel bat R' Avraham

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Prolonged spotting

18 May, 2005

Question:

Six days after mikvah I started spotting. I am on birth control and I missed one pill, so I think that this is the reason for my spotting.

I noticed it on my dark underwear and on some toilet paper (I waited 15 seconds before wiping). I have not had a hargashah and it is not enough blood to be a flow.

I have now been spotting for 5 full days. My husband and I have been abstaining until I stop spotting. I was wondering if we have to abstain if I am not in nidah. What should we do? Do I need to do a bedikah after I am done spotting? I am just very confused as to what needs to be done. Please give me as much information as possible so we know what to do.

thank you-
spotting and confused


Answer:

We're sorry to hear of your prolonged spotting.

Based on the information you provide, you are not technically considered a niddah at this point.  However, you should continue to abstain until your status becomes absolutely clear – until the spotting either clears up (for about twenty-four hours) or turns into a flow.  You are not required to observe any other harchakot.  (Please note that this abstention is a recommendation and not an absolute halachic requirement.)

There is no requirement to perform a bedikah, although you may wish to perform one prior to resuming relations.  This will help ensure that you can have relations with full confidence that you are not in niddah.

Please write back with any further questions.


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