Spotting

So I have a question about spotting, I believe I’ve been spotting recently my bf and I have been trying to conceive, the spotting has been going on for a few days and I’m not close to my period at all and it recently got heavy and only shows up when I wipe. And I’ve been getting pains in my sides and nothing like my normal period cramps. So idk if I’m spotting or I started my period early. If you have any questions or what I’m saying doesn’t make sense please feel free to ask and share your thoughts, Thank you :)