How do I know the difference between spotting and my period?

Okay so, spotting is usually just a little bit of blood, and it doesn't last as long or get as heavy as your period.

Think of spotting like a tiny sneak peek, or maybe just a drop, and it might be pinkish or brownish. It's usually not enough to need a pad or tampon, and it can happen for different reasons, like right before your period starts for real, or if your hormones are just figuring things out. For your first few years, spotting can be super normal because your body is still learning what a period even is.

Your period, though, is like the main event. It usually starts light, then gets heavier, and sticks around for a few days to about a week. The blood will be redder, and you'll definitely need a pad or tampon to keep from making a mess. It's an actual flow, not just a few drops. You might also have other period stuff happening, like cramps or feeling tired, while spotting usually doesn't come with all that extra drama.

Tracking your cycle in the Soso app can really help you see the difference because you log how much you're bleeding each day. So you'll start to notice your own patterns, and it makes it way easier to know what's just spotting and what's your period showing up for real.