Does womb cancer cause bleeding after menopause?

After menopause, vaginal bleeding is not part of a normal menstrual cycle. Womb cancer can make the uterine lining bleed, but thinning vaginal or womb tissues, polyps, hormone medicines, infection, and other conditions can also cause bleeding. A small amount of spotting still needs assessment because the appearance of the blood cannot identify its cause.

Contact a doctor or gynaecologist promptly about any bleeding after menopause, even if it happened once or stopped. Explain when menopause occurred, the amount and colour of blood, pain, medicines, and any use of hormone therapy. Assessment may include an examination, ultrasound, and a sample from the womb lining when clinically appropriate.

Use urgent care if bleeding is heavy, you feel faint or weak, or you have severe pain, fever, or new shortness of breath. If the bleeding is light and you feel well, arrange prompt outpatient review rather than waiting for another episode.

Ask which tests are appropriate, what the examination is checking, and whether medicines or hormone therapy could explain the bleeding. Ask how quickly results will be available and what symptoms should prompt earlier help.