It’s possible to feel like your period has started but only see blood when you wipe and not on your pad. This usually means the flow is very light. The blood may be coming out slowly and only noticeable when you use the bathroom.
Light bleeding at the start or end of a period is common. Hormonal changes, stress, or natural cycle variations can make the flow lighter than usual. Sometimes the blood is dark or brown and comes out in small amounts, which may not be enough to soak a pad.
If this is happening around the time you expected your period, it may simply be a lighter cycle. If there is any chance of pregnancy, light bleeding can also happen in early pregnancy, so that should be considered. Pay attention to other symptoms like strong cramps, dizziness, or unusual discharge.
If the pattern continues for several cycles, your periods become very irregular, or you have pain or heavy bleeding later, schedule an appointment with a gynecologist. Avoid starting or stopping any hormonal medications on your own without medical advice.