Menopause but still bleeding: what to know

Menopause is reached after periods have stopped for twelve months. Bleeding after that point is different from irregular bleeding during the transition. Causes can include thinning and irritation of vaginal or uterine tissues, polyps, medicines, or changes in the womb lining. Less commonly, it can be linked with a serious condition, so its appearance alone cannot identify the cause.

A clinician may ask when the bleeding began, how much there was, whether sex triggered it, and whether you use hormones or blood-thinning medicine. Examination and tests may include looking at the vagina and cervix, an ultrasound, or sampling the womb lining.

Arrange an appointment with a gynaecology or primary-care clinician and record the date, colour, amount and pattern of each episode. Mention pelvic pain, discharge, recent sex, medicines and any hormone treatment. Do not stop prescribed medicine without advice. Vaginal dryness can make tissue fragile; you can read about Vaginal Dryness while arranging care.

Seek urgent medical help if bleeding is heavy, you feel faint or weak, you have severe pelvic pain, fever, or you are soaking pads rapidly. Otherwise, contact a clinician promptly for any bleeding after menopause rather than waiting for another episode.

Ask what may be causing the bleeding, which examination or scan is appropriate, whether the womb lining needs sampling, and when results or follow-up should happen.