Sudden bleeding after menopause: what to know

After menopause, bleeding is not treated as a regular period. Fragile vaginal or cervical tissue linked with genitourinary syndrome of menopause can bleed, especially after friction. Growths such as endometrial polyps, or thickening called endometrial hyperplasia, can also cause bleeding. Less commonly, bleeding is a presentation of womb, cervical, or vaginal cancer; bleeding itself does not establish that diagnosis.

Tell the clinician whether the blood was pink, red, or brown, how much appeared, and whether you had pain, discharge, or bleeding after sex.

Arrange an appointment with a gynaecology or primary-care clinician promptly, even if the bleeding stopped. They may ask about medicines, hormone therapy, prior procedures, and the date of your last natural period. Assessment can include an examination, ultrasound, and sometimes a sample from the womb lining.

Do not use vaginal products or start hormonal treatment to stop the bleeding without advice. Keep a brief record of episodes and bring a list of medicines.

Seek urgent medical help if bleeding is heavy or persistent, you feel faint or weak, have severe pelvic pain, fever, or shortness of breath. These signs can indicate blood loss or another problem needing same-day care.

Ask what examinations are needed, whether the womb lining needs sampling, and how your medicines or hormone therapy could affect the bleeding. Ask when to return if it happens again.