women s health issues
Vaginal Bleeding
Essentials for Older Women: Vaginal Bleeding
Postmenopausal bleeding (occurring more than 12 months after the last menstrual period) is relatively common but is always considered abnormal. Such bleeding can indicate a precancerous disorder (such as thickening of the lining of the uterus) or cancer. Thus, if such bleeding occurs, older women should see a doctor promptly so that cancer can be ruled out or be treated immediately. Older women should see a doctor promptly if they have Any vaginal bleeding A vaginal discharge that is pink or brown, possibly containing small amounts of blood However, postmenopausal bleeding has many other causes. The most common cause is Thinning of the lining of the uterus or vagina (genitourinary syndrome of menopause) Other causes include Use of estrogen or other hormone therapy, particularly when use is stopped Polyps in the cervix or uterus Fibroids Infections Because the tissues of the vagina may be thin and dry, examination of the vagina may be uncomfortable. Doctors may try using a smaller instrument (speculum) to make the examination less uncomfortable. 