Post-menopausal bleeding, although uncommon, can be managed and treated through a formal diagnosis. In this article, we discuss the causes of post-menopausal bleeding, and what to do if you are experiencing it.
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What is post-menopausal bleeding
Post-menopausal bleeding is vaginal bleeding that occurs after you have stopped having periods for 12 months. Indicating a stage known as reaching menopause, it is uncommon to bleed after this stage has been met, as it is different from a menstrual period.
Why does post-menopausal bleeding happen?
There are several causes of post-menopausal bleeding which have been identified and recognised by professionals, which include:
Vaginal atrophy – A condition caused by the thinning and/or inflammation of the vaginal or uterine lining due to low oestrogen. This can make it bleed more easily post-menopause.
Endometrial atrophy – A condition caused by the thinning and /or inflammation of the womb lining due to low oestrogen. This can make it bleed more easily.
Cervical, womb or uterine polyps – Growths in the reproductive organs that are usually non-cancerous.
Endometrial hyperplasia – A condition that causes the womb lining to thicken, which can lead to bleeding.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) – Changing or stopping HRT can lead to bleeding as your body adjusts to the hormonal shift.
Less common causes of menopausal bleeding include cervicitis and cervical, ovarian, or womb cancer. This can be treated by surgery to remove the organ, such as a hysterectomy.
If you are experiencing post-menopausal bleeding, speak to your GP or consult with one of our specialists.. They will be able to help diagnose the cause and identify a suitable course of treatment.
Is post menopausal bleeding something to worry about?
Although post-menopausal bleeding is not usually serious, post-menopausal bleeding should always be checked out by a specialist. If you are experiencing menopausal bleeding, a specialist may carry out routine tests to identify the cause. Although it is uncommon, menopausal bleeding can be a sign of cancer, which is why it’s always recommended you consult with a medical professional if you are experiencing post menopausal bleeding of any kind.
Other symptoms of post menopausal bleeding
Speak to your doctor, GP or specialist if you also notice any of the following symptoms:
- Unplanned weight loss
- Urinary symptoms
- Bowel symptoms
- Abdominal pain
- Fever and chills
Brown discharge after menopause
Brown discharge or spotting after you’ve reached menopause is another unusual symptom that some women experience. It can include spotting, bleeding, or unusual discharge, and it occurs when blood oxidizes as it leaves the vagina. This causes discoloration, and turns blood from red to brown or black. It can also be caused by blood mixing with discharge.
Similarly to post-menopausal bleeding, brown discharge can indicate an underlying condition such as vaginal atrophy, polyps, or HRT. The numerous changes in the reproductive organs can lead to irritation, inflammation and infection as your body physically adjusts.
No matter how little or how often you are experiencing brown discharge, spotting or bleeding, it is recommended to speak to a specialist to help get to the bottom of it and find suitable treatment.
How to stop brown discharge after menopause
For most women, post-menopausal discharge or bleeding can be managed and treated. It’s recommended to speak to your doctor to identify the underlying cause. Once this has been identified, you will be able to receive the appropriate medical treatment to alleviate your symptoms and treat it.
To diagnose the cause of your symptoms, your doctor may carry out a number of tests, which may include a vaginal ultrasound scan, a smear test, or a hysteroscopy.
Treatment for post menopausal bleeding and discharge
The treatment for post-menopausal bleeding or discharge depends on what’s causing it to happen. Once you have received a professional diagnosis, you will be able to begin appropriate treatment, which can involve:
- Medicinal treatment, such as hormone medicines or antibiotics
- Post-menopausal supplements
- Oestrogen cream
- Surgery to remove polyps or fibroids
- HRT management
- Surgery to remove your ovaries (an oophorectomy)
- Surgery to remove your uterus (a subtotal hysterectomy)
- Surgery to remove your cervix individually ((a trachelectomy)
- Surgery to remove your uterus, ovaries, and cervix (a total hysterectomy)
- Routine check-ups and screenings post-treatment
Managing post menopausal symptoms
Beyond consulting with your doctor, there are lifestyle changes that you can implement to help manage post-menopausal symptoms and feel like yourself again. Your body has experienced physiological and psychological distress, so it’s important to look after your mental and physical wellbeing. This can include regular exercise, hydration, pelvic floor exercises, a healthy diet, a good sleep routine, CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy).
You can read more about the symptoms to expect after reaching menopause in our guide: Post menopause symptoms: What happens after menopause?
If you are experiencing any post-menopausal symptoms, reach out to a medical professional. Modality LLP partners with experienced specialists who can work with you and support you through your own menopausal journey. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team to find out how we can help you.
