top of page

Periods after menopause? Why you should have it investigated

I get asked can periods restart after menopause?


Menopause is defined as the cessation of menstrual periods for 12 consecutive months, marking the end of a woman's reproductive years. Typically, menopause occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average age being around 51.


Understanding Postmenopausal Bleeding

Once a woman has reached menopause, she is not supposed to have menstrual periods again. However, some women may experience bleeding after this point. This postmenopausal bleeding (PMB) can be alarming and should always be evaluated by GP. It is essential to differentiate between true menstrual bleeding and other causes of vaginal bleeding.


Causes of Postmenopausal Bleeding

There are several reasons why a woman might experience bleeding after menopause:


Hormone Therapy: Some women take hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to manage menopausal symptoms. This therapy can sometimes cause light bleeding or spotting, similar to menstrual bleeding.


Endometrial Atrophy: The lining of the uterus, known as the endometrium, can become very thin after menopause due to low estrogen levels. This thinning can sometimes lead to bleeding.


Endometrial Hyperplasia: Conversely, some women may develop a thickened endometrial lining due to hormone imbalances, which can result in bleeding. This condition is often caused by an excess of estrogen without enough progesterone.


Polyps: Benign growths on the cervix or inside the uterine lining can cause bleeding. These polyps are usually not cancerous but can still lead to postmenopausal bleeding.


Infections: Infections of the uterine lining (endometritis) or the vagina can cause bleeding.


Cancers: Although less common, cancers of the endometrium, cervix, or vagina can present with bleeding as a symptom. Postmenopausal bleeding is a warning sign that requires prompt investigation to rule out malignancy.


When to Seek Medical Advice

Any bleeding after menopause should be taken seriously. Women experiencing postmenopausal bleeding should consult their GP for a thorough evaluation. The diagnostic process may include:


  • Medical History and Physical Examination

  • Transvaginal Ultrasound

  • Endometrial Biopsy

  • Hysteroscopy


While menstrual periods do not restart after menopause, any postmenopausal bleeding should prompt a visit to your GP for a proper diagnosis and appropriate management.






Featured Posts
Recent Posts
Archive
Search By Tags
Follow Us
  • Facebook Basic Square
  • Twitter Basic Square
  • Google+ Basic Square

© 2024 by Sacred Point

ABN 97212850516

bottom of page