BLEEDING ABNORMALITIES: POSTMENOPAUSAL

Menopause is the time in a woman's life when she no longer has a period for one year or more. It is often referred to as the "change of life." Menopause also happens if you have surgery to remove your uterus and ovaries (a radical hysterectomy). Many women may have some bleeding after menopause, however, bleeding is not normal and can be a symptom of a serious condition. As women age, cancer risk increases, so all bleeding from the vagina should be checked out by your healthcare provider.

Cancers of the uterus, cervix, or vagina are some of the causes of postmenopausal bleeding. Sometimes, infections or growths (such as polyps or tumors) in the cervix, uterus, or vagina may cause bleeding. Other causes are medicines such as blood thinners or man made estrogen replacements. As women age, estrogen is not made by a women's body anymore and the vaginal lining becomes thinner and drier. When this happens the lining of the vagina can crack and bleeding occurs. The lining of the uterus also changes with menopause and the cells inside the uterus can become enlarged causing irritation and bleeding.

Tests may be needed to find out why there is bleeding and what type of treatment is required. Tests may include:

a vaginal examination where a sampling of cells is taken from the uterus, vagina, or cervix
blood tests to check your hormone levels and general health
a test using sound waves (called ultrasound) to scan the pelvic organs and
an examination with a small scope to look into your pelvis to examine and sample tissue

If treatment is necessary it may include hormones, antibiotics, or surgery. Most causes of bleeding after menopause are easily treated.

Most of the time bleeding is not caused by cancer. Postmenopausal bleeding must always be reported to your provider, especially if bleeding occurs 6 months after your periods have stopped.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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