What should you know about full period after menopause?

Menopause is reached after periods have stopped for a sustained interval. Bleeding afterwards may come from thinning or irritation of the vaginal or womb lining, polyps, infection, hormone medicines, or other conditions. A clinician may ask about the colour, amount, timing and recurrence of the bleeding, then examine you and arrange tests such as an ultrasound or a sample from the womb lining. Bleeding does not by itself identify the cause, but it should not be treated as a returning normal cycle.

Arrange a prompt appointment with a gynaecology or primary-care service, and record when the bleeding began, how long it lasted, whether clots or pain were present, and any medicines or hormone treatment you use. Use pads so you can observe the amount. Do not delay assessment because the episode stopped. If you have vaginal dryness or discomfort, mention it, as local irritation can contribute to spotting and may need separate care.

Seek urgent medical help if bleeding is heavy or persistent, you feel faint or weak, have severe pelvic pain, fever, or new unpleasant-smelling discharge. Emergency care is appropriate for collapse, severe dizziness, or bleeding that rapidly soaks pads. These warning signs reflect possible blood loss, infection or another acute problem, rather than how common the underlying cause is.

Ask what examination and tests are suitable, whether your medicines could contribute, and when results should be available. You can also ask what symptoms should prompt a faster review and whether treatment for vaginal dryness is appropriate.