How is bleeding between periods treated?

Bleeding between periods may be linked with hormonal contraception, ovulation, infection, cervical ectropion or cervical polyps. Chlamydia can cause bleeding with discharge or pelvic discomfort. Less commonly, changes in the cervix or womb lining need further assessment.

A clinician may ask about your cycle, contraception, medicines, pregnancy possibility and menopausal status. Examination and tests can include a pregnancy test, infection swabs, cervical assessment and imaging or womb-lining assessment when symptoms call for it.

Treatment may involve changing contraception, treating a confirmed infection, or removing a cervical or endometrial polyp. If cervical cell changes are found, follow-up or a procedure may be recommended. Bleeding after menopause needs assessment because the womb lining may require specific investigation.

Keep a record of dates, flow, triggers, pain and associated discharge. Bring your medicines and contraception details to the appointment. Do not stop prescribed hormonal treatment without advice, since stopping suddenly can itself alter bleeding.

Book a review for recurrent bleeding, bleeding after sex, bleeding after menopause, or bleeding with pelvic pain or unusual discharge. Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding, faintness, severe pain, fever or bleeding when pregnancy is possible.

Ask whether pregnancy or infection testing is needed, whether your contraception could be contributing, what the examination found, and when further assessment of the cervix or womb lining is appropriate.