Little bleeding after menopause

Bleeding can come from thin, fragile vaginal or cervical tissue, sometimes related to genitourinary syndrome of menopause. Other possibilities include a cervical or endometrial polyp, thickening of the womb lining called endometrial hyperplasia, or a cancer affecting the womb, cervix, or vagina. These causes cannot be separated by colour or amount alone.

An examination may identify where the blood started. Assessment can include a pelvic examination, cervical screening when appropriate, an ultrasound, or a sample of the womb lining. The choice depends on your history and examination.

Arrange a medical appointment promptly and mention when the bleeding began, whether it followed sex, and whether you use hormone therapy or medicines that affect clotting. Note its colour, amount, and whether you have pain, discharge, or urinary symptoms. Do not delay assessment because the bleeding stops.

Seek urgent help if bleeding is heavy or persistent, you feel faint or unusually weak, or you develop severe pelvic pain, fever, or shortness of breath. These symptoms need prompt evaluation regardless of the suspected cause.

Ask what might be causing the bleeding, which examination or scan is appropriate, whether the womb lining needs sampling, and when you should expect results. Ask which symptoms should send you to urgent care.