Postmenopausal Bleeding

24 May Postmenopausal Bleeding

Postmenopausal bleeding is when there is bleeding that occurs after menopause. There are a few reasons why postmenopausal bleeding may occur:

• Polyps: This is tissue growth in the uterus, cervical canal or cervix that can cause heavy bleeding, spotting and bleeding after sex.
• Endometrial Atrophy: This is the thinning of the uterine lining that can cause bleeding. This occurs due to low hormone levels.
• Endometrial Hyperplasia: This occurs when the uterine lining becomes too thick. Sometimes cells can become abnormal due to this thickness and lead to cancer.
• Vaginal Atrophy: This is the thinning of the vaginal tissue. Low estrogen levels can cause the vaginal lining to become thin and dry, causing bleeding, especially after sex.
• Cancer: Uterine, endometrial, vaginal or cervical cancer can all trigger bleeding.
• Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Chlamydia, herpes sores, and gonorrhea can all cause bleeding after sex.
• Medications: Certain medications like tamoxifen, hormone therapy and blood thinners can all cause postmenopausal bleeding.

As always, please see your healthcare practitioner so he or she can to do an assessment and provide the best care for your situation.