Vaginal Bleeding After Menopause

Vaginal bleeding after menopause can be a sign of serious health problems, though in many cases it is caused by benign reasons that can be easily treated. So don't panic, but do visit your gynecologist to get checked out.

Hormonal Factor

• After menopause, vaginal bleeding is usually caused by dramatic hormonal fluctuation. In addition, hormonal changes can make vaginal tissue become thin and dry, and more prone to bleeding after intercourse.

Hormone Therapy Side Effect

• Some women who receive hormone therapy may experience vaginal bleeding because the doses are either too low or too high. However, bleeding usually stops shortly after dosage adjustment.

Other Health Problems

• Sometimes, postmenopausal vaginal bleeding may indicate serious health problems such as uterine infection, uterine fibroids, endometrial hyperplasia, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer or blood disorders.

Medical Evaluation

• It is wise to visit your gynecologist after experiencing postmenopausal vaginal bleeding. The gynecologist might run several tests, including a pelvic exam, Pap smear, transvaginal ultrasound, hysteroscopy, and possibly a bladder and colon exam.

Avoid a Needless Hysterectomy

• A hysterectomy or a surgical removal of the uterus can guarantee that the bleeding will stop, though it can also cause many adverse effects. It's important to get a second opinion.