Bleeding During Menopause

Many possible causes are not cancer, but an examination is needed to identify where the blood came from and whether further tests are appropriate.

After Menopause, lower oestrogen levels can make vaginal or vulval tissues dry and delicate, so they may bleed after friction or intercourse. Polyps, changes in the womb lining, infection, medicines that affect bleeding, and problems affecting the cervix or womb are other possibilities.

Blood noticed on underwear or toilet paper can also come from the bladder, bowel, or irritated skin rather than the vagina. A clinician can help locate the source. Vaginal Dryness may occur alongside soreness, burning, or discomfort during sex.

Arrange a medical appointment promptly. Record when the bleeding started, its colour and amount, whether it followed intercourse, and any discharge, pelvic pressure, urinary symptoms, or pain. Bring an up-to-date list of medicines, including hormone therapy and medicines that reduce blood clotting.

The assessment may include an external and internal examination. Depending on the findings, the clinician may recommend imaging or a sample from the womb lining. Tell them if an examination is painful or if you would like a chaperone.

Seek urgent medical care if bleeding is heavy or rapidly increasing, or if it occurs with severe pelvic or abdominal pain, fainting, marked weakness, breathlessness, fever, or feeling very unwell. Do not drive yourself if you are dizzy or faint.

Light spotting without these warning signs still needs a clinical appointment; the absence of pain does not remove the need for assessment.

Ask where the bleeding appears to originate, which examination or tests are recommended, and how any medicines might affect it. Clarify how and when results will arrive, what treatment may help dryness or irritation, and which changes should prompt urgent reassessment.