Vaginal Bleeding After Menopause

What is vaginal bleeding after menopause?

Vaginal bleeding after menopause refers to any vaginal or uterine bleeding that occurs after a woman has gone through menopause. Menopause is defined as having experienced a period of 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period.

All vaginal bleeding after menopause is abnormal and should be evaluated by a health care practitioner. Vaginal bleeding after menopause can result from gynecologic disorders, such as fibroids or polyps, or from complications of hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

The menstrual period is controlled by two hormones: estrogen and progesterone. After menopause, the production of these hormones declines substantially. Women who are on HRT may sometimes experience vaginal bleeding after menopause. Women with thyroid disorders may have hormonal imbalances that can result in vaginal bleeding after menopause.

Vaginal bleeding after menopause can occasionally be a sign of a serious or potentially life-threatening condition. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, experience severe or uncontrolled bleeding accompanied by a fast heart rate. If you experience vaginal bleeding after menopause, seek prompt medical care. Your health care provider will determine the cause of your abnormal bleeding through a pelvic examination and other tests.