A period after a year without periods

After twelve months without a period, a new bleed is not usually treated as a late period. It may be caused by thinning or irritation of vaginal or womb tissue, polyps, medicines, or hormone treatment. It can also signal a problem in the womb lining, including cancer, so the cause should be identified.

The amount does not determine whether assessment is needed. Pink discharge, brown spotting, or a heavier flow all count as bleeding. Keep track of the date, amount, and associated symptoms while arranging care.

Contact a healthcare professional or gynaecology service promptly. Bring a list of medicines, hormone treatment, contraception history, and any previous pelvic diagnoses. Mention bleeding after sex, pelvic pain, unusual discharge, or urinary symptoms.

The assessment may include questions, an examination, and an ultrasound. Depending on the findings, a clinician may recommend a small sample from the womb lining. These steps help identify the source and guide treatment.

Seek urgent help if the bleeding is heavy, you feel faint or weak, or you have severe pain. Fever, offensive discharge, or feeling acutely unwell also warrants prompt advice. If the bleeding is light and you feel well, still arrange assessment rather than waiting for another episode.

Ask what may be causing the bleed, what tests are recommended, and how quickly they should happen. Ask whether vaginal dryness, pelvic organ prolapse, or hormone treatment could contribute and what symptoms should prompt urgent contact.