Menopause and bleeding for two weeks: what to know

During the menopause transition, hormone fluctuations can make the womb lining shed at unexpected times or for longer than your usual period. A long episode may still have another cause, including fibroids, polyps, infection, medicine effects, pregnancy-related problems or changes in the womb lining. Vaginal dryness can cause light bleeding after sex, but it does not explain every pattern.

If you have had a full year without periods, any later vaginal bleeding needs assessment. The clinician may ask about the start and stop dates, flow, clots, pain, contraception, hormone treatment and medicines that affect clotting. The pattern helps guide whether an examination or further tests are appropriate.

Arrange a medical appointment rather than waiting for another cycle to clarify the pattern. Record how often you change pads or other products, whether bleeding happens after sex, and any dizziness, fatigue or pelvic pain. Continue prescribed medicine unless a clinician tells you otherwise. Rest as needed and drink normally; seek advice if you feel weak or cannot keep fluids down. Mention any chance of pregnancy, even during an irregular cycle.

Get urgent help if bleeding is rapidly increasing, you feel faint, unusually weak or short of breath, or you have severe pelvic pain. Fever, foul-smelling discharge, collapse or possible pregnancy with pain or bleeding also needs prompt assessment. Emergency care is appropriate if you cannot stand safely because of dizziness or feel acutely unwell.

What could be causing this duration of bleeding? Do my medicines or hormone treatment affect it? Do I need an examination or tests? How can I recognise blood loss that needs urgent care?