What should you know about the uterine lining after menopause?

Menopause is the stage when periods have stopped because ovarian hormone production has changed. Lower oestrogen commonly makes the uterine lining thinner. Vaginal or cervical tissue can also become delicate and dry, which may cause spotting, but bleeding can have several causes, including polyps, hormone medicines or changes within the uterus.

A scan may show the lining’s appearance and thickness, but the result must be interpreted alongside your history and symptoms. An abnormal finding does not by itself identify the cause.

Contact a clinician about any bleeding, pink or brown discharge after menopause. Note when it happened, how much there was, whether it followed sex, and which medicines or hormone treatments you use. Assessment may include an examination, ultrasound and sometimes a sample of the lining.

Other menopause changes can include [Vaginal Dryness](/symptoms/vaginal-dryness/), [Hot Flushes](/symptoms/hot-flushes/) and [Night Sweats](/symptoms/night-sweats/).

Book a timely appointment for any postmenopausal bleeding, including a single spot. Seek urgent help if bleeding is heavy, you feel faint or weak, or you have severe pelvic pain, fever or an unwell feeling.

Ask what may explain the bleeding, whether an ultrasound or lining sample is appropriate, and when results will be available. Tell the clinician about hormone therapy, blood thinners, pelvic pain and any previous uterine problems.