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Postmenopausal Bleeding

Postmenopausal Bleeding occurs when there is Vaginal bleeding that occurs 6 months or more after an individual has stopped her menstrual function [menopause]. In many cases, Menopause occurs typically around the ages of 40-55.

With this thinking, most women shouldn’t experience any vaginal bleeding after this time period. If they do, then they need to be asking themselves why. There are a few different possibilities and many of these need to be worked up.

Some of the causes may be completely harmless. However, this post-menopausal bleeding could result from something more serious.

If a woman experiences some amount of bleeding following menopause it may be classified as irregular and infrequent. Others are having a more constant amount of bleeding. The amount, frequency, and severity are important factors.

It is also important to determine if the blood is coming from the Vagina or from the Urethra or Urine. Things like Kidney stones, Urinary Tract Infections, and more may cause bleeding that may initially seem like it is coming from the Vagina.

Possible Causes:

–  High levels of Estrogen medications or Estrogen in the body
–  Infection – Endometritis
–  Overgrowth of some cells – Endometrial Hyperplasia
–  Atrophic Vaginitis
–  Atrophic Endometrium
–  Cancer
–  Polyps
–  Trauma
–  and others.

Diagnosis

1.)  A pelvic inspection may be necessary

2.)  A biopsy may be appropriate.

3.)  CT or MRI for further evaluation

4.)  Pap smear

5.)  Blood work

6.)  And more

Treatment

Treatment involves identifying the cause.

1.)  D&C

2.)  Gynecologic Procedures – may be informative

3.)  Change in Medications

4.)  Surgery

5.)  Medications