Bleeding After Menopause: Why You Should Be Concerned
You’ve officially made it through menopause. Clinically speaking, that means you’ve experienced 12 months in a row without a period. Then after this milestone and out of the blue you notice something.
Maybe it’s full-on bleeding, perhaps some spotting, or a pinkish or brownish discharge. If that sounds familiar, take note. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, the underlying cause is typically benign in 80% to 90% of the cases. However, there’s the possibility it could be serious. With that in mind, it’s important to seek a medical evaluation as soon as possible.
Some of the Most Frequent Benign Culprits
Benign causes of uterine bleeding can vary. Declining estrogen levels are among the most common culprits. This hormonal shift can allow the uterine and vaginal walls to become dry and thin, which can cause tissues to tear and bleed. Additionally, noncancerous uterine and cervical polyps are prone to bleeding. And changes to hormone replacement therapy are known to trigger bleeding as well.
Reason for Concern
According to the American Cancer Society, vaginal bleeding, spotting, and other vaginal discharge is the most common symptom of endometrial cancer. Early diagnosis is critical. The Menopause Society points out when symptoms are caught at an early stage, the five-year survival rate is almost 95%. However, if the disease isn’t spotted in time, the cancer may advance and metastasize. In those cases, the survival rate can be less than 19%. Additional symptoms, such as pelvic pain or a feeling of fullness and unexplained weight loss, can be signs of later-stage endometrial cancer.
How Avant Gynecology Can Help
If you are noticing any of the aforementioned symptoms, one of our trusted and compassionate providers can perform several in-office examinations to help diagnose or rule out any issues. Your appointment could include:
- Pelvic Examination: This visual check of the vaginal walls and cervix helps rule out lesions, polyps, or surface irritation.
- Pelvic Ultrasound: Avant Gynecology offers pelvic ultrasounds three days each week performed by a trained and seasoned ultrasound technician. A pelvic ultrasound can help pinpoint the underlying causes of abnormal uterine bleeding.
- Hysteroscopy: A provider performs this procedure by inserting a thin, lighted camera through the cervix and into the uterus to assess the uterine cavity and help identify the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding.
- Endometrial Biopsy: A sample of the uterine lining is collected and the specimen is sent to pathology for evaluation. Biopsy results may indicate if cancer is present.
Experiencing Post-Menopausal Bleeding?
Always act fast if you notice post-menopausal bleeding. Even a single episode calls for professional attention. If you notice any unexpected bleeding, schedule an appointment online with Avant Gynecology.
Q&A Recap
What is post-menopausal bleeding?
Post-menopausal bleeding is any bleeding, spotting, or vaginal discharge taking place after 12 consecutive months without a period.
Is post-menopausal bleeding a cause for concern?
Yes. Although in most cases post-menopausal bleeding is benign, it is the most common symptom of endometrial cancer.
Is early detection of endometrial cancer important?
Yes. The Menopause Society says when endometrial cancer is diagnosed early, the five-year survival rate is almost 95%. A late diagnosis could reveal cancer that has advanced and metastasized. In those cases, the survival rate can be less than 19%.
How does a gynecologist diagnose post-menopausal bleeding?
Several examinations can be done to help diagnose post-menopausal bleeding. Examinations can include a pelvic exam, pelvic ultrasound, Hysteroscopy, or an endometrial biopsy.
