How common is bleeding after menopause in cervical cancer?

Bleeding after menopause includes spotting, pink or brown discharge, bleeding after sex, or a flow resembling a period after menstrual cycles have stopped. Cervical cancer can cause bleeding when changes on the cervix make its surface more fragile. However, thinning vaginal tissue, polyps, infection and other womb or cervical conditions can also cause bleeding.

The appearance or amount of blood cannot distinguish these causes. A healthcare professional may examine the vagina and cervix and arrange tests based on your symptoms and screening history.

Contact a doctor or gynaecology service promptly about any bleeding after menopause, even if it happens once or is light. Note when it occurred, how long it lasted, whether it followed sex, and whether you have pain, discharge or urinary symptoms. Assessment may include an examination, cervical testing or imaging. Learn more about [Cervical Cancer](/conditions/cervical-cancer/) and [Bleeding After Menopause](/symptoms/postmenopausal-bleeding/).

Seek urgent help if bleeding is heavy or continuous, you feel faint or unusually weak, or you have severe pelvic pain, fever or worsening illness. Do not wait for a routine appointment when these symptoms are present.

What could be causing this bleeding? Do I need an examination of the cervix or womb? Which tests will clarify the cause? When should I contact you again if spotting returns?