After a woman has not had a period for a year, she has reached menopause. If the bleeding resumes after that, it may be quite disturbing. Sometimes it's a simple cause like vaginal dryness or a change in the lining of the uterus. But bleeding after menopause isn't something to brush off. It is good to speak to a gynaecologist to understand the cause.
What can cause bleeding after menopause?
During menopause, the tissues that line the vagina and uterus may become thinner and more delicate. This can cause dryness, irritation, or light bleeding. Polyps, or benign growths in the uterus, some medications, hormone therapy, or changes in the lining of the uterus may cause bleeding.
However, post menopausal bleeding may also sometimes be a first sign of cancer of the uterus, also known as uterine cancer, which begins in the lining of the uterus. That is why doctors advise checking for any unexpected bleeding.
When to seek medical attention?
If you are having any vaginal bleeding, don't just wait, even if it's just a few spots or bleeding that is comparable to a period.
If you notice any of the following:
The bleeding is recurrent
You notice pink, red, or brown discharge
There is significant bleeding or clots passing
After sexual intercourse, you bleed out
You have pelvic pain or pressure along with the bleeding
Do not assume that if you have these symptoms, you have cancer. They just mean that it is crucial to discover the cause.
What tests might be needed?
Your doctor will usually begin by asking when the bleeding started, how much bleeding you experienced, and whether you have any other symptoms. A pelvic examination may also be recommended.
A transvaginal ultrasound is often performed to look at the uterus and to determine the thickness of the lining (endometrium) inside the uterus. Your doctor may recommend an endometrial biopsy, which involves removing a small tissue sample for testing, if there is something unusual. Sometimes a hysteroscopy is recommended. This gives the doctor the ability to use a thin camera to examine the inside of the uterus and see if there are any abnormalities, such as uterine polyps.
Does bleeding mean cancer?
It does not always mean cancer. There are many women with postmenopausal bleeding and with non-cancerous conditions. Still its better to get it checked because it can be an early symptom of endometrial cancer
Don't worry if you have passed menopause and see bleeding, but also don't wait. Although it may be a harmless condition, visiting a doctor can help ease anxiety. But when there's a problem that needs treatment, early detection gives you the best chance of fixing it ASAP. You're not being asked to fear that you're bleeding; you're being asked to have your bleeding checked.