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Bleeding After Menopause: What You Should Know
Menopause is a natural transition that occurs in women when they reach a certain age. It’s a time when the body’s fertility begins to decline as a decline in reproductive hormones takes place. Bleeding after menopause, also known as postmenopausal bleeding, is usually an indication of a serious health problem and women should be aware of common signs and risk factors.
Signs of Postmenopausal Bleeding
Some of the typical signs of postmenopausal bleeding include:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Spotting
- Passing clotted material
- Vaginal discharge
What Causes Bleeding After Menopause?
There are many possible causes of bleeding after menopause. One of the most common causes is a hormonal imbalance, which may be caused by an underlying medical condition such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Other causes can include:
- Uterine cancer
- Endometrial polyps
- Uterine fibroids
- Endometrial atrophy
- Medication side effects
- Radiation therapy
Risk Factors for Postmenopausal Bleeding
Certain factors may increase a woman’s risk of bleeding after menopause, including:
- Age (older women are more likely to experience postmenopausal bleeding)
- Hormone therapy
- Family history of uterine cancer
- Obesity
- Tamoxifen therapy
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience any signs of bleeding after menopause, you should see your doctor right away. Your doctor will be able to do a physical exam, examine your medical history, and perform any necessary tests to help diagnose the cause of the bleeding. Treatment options may include medications, lifestyle changes, or surgery, depending on the cause of the bleeding.
Postmenopausal bleeding could be a sign of something serious, so women should see their doctor right away if they experience any signs or symptoms of bleeding after menopause.
