Nearly half (43%) of women feel that menstrual health education in school has not prepared them to understand their periods, according to results of a new survey from Bodyform and Censuswide. And it’s a knowledge gap that can have far-reaching consequences for women’s health – especially if people are unaware of potentially abnormal bleeding symptoms.
Here, Tania Adib, consultant gynecologist and menopause specialist at Lister Hospital, explains the signs your bleeding may not be normal – and when you should seek medical advice.
“Vaginal bleeding can be concerning, but it’s important not to ignore it,” she emphasizes. “While many causes can be easily treated, some symptoms require immediate medical evaluation.”
Abnormal bleeding, Adib adds, can be caused by a number of things, such as:
- “Benign polyps on the cervix or in the uterus.”
- “Infection – including bacterial vaginosis or sexually transmitted infections.”
- “Cervical ectropion [a red-looking area on the outer surface of the cervix]often in connection with the birth control pill.”
- “Vaginal dryness – especially during perimenopause or postmenopause.”
- “Hormonic Imbalance or HRT Adjustment.”
- “More serious medical conditions, including cervical or uterine cancer.”
The key is always to get something checked out as soon as possible, says Adib, adding that all of the above issues “can be treated effectively if checked early.”
5 bleeding symptoms you should never ignore
She recommends making a doctor’s appointment if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- “Bleeding after sex”
- “Bleeding between periods”
- “Any bleeding after menopause”
- “Bloodstained or unusual discharge”
- “Pelvic pain and bleeding”
“Any change in your cycle that feels unusual or concerning, please get checked out,” Adib reiterates.
It may be that upon further investigation it is a harmless problem. However, because these symptoms could indicate something more serious, it is always worth getting checked out.
Below, Adib explains these warning signs further.
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Bleeding after sex
“Occasionally, mild spotting may occur due to vaginal dryness, particularly after a period of inactivity. However, persistent or recurring bleeding after sex should always be investigated.”
Bleeding between periods
“Bleeding outside of your normal cycle is not usually considered normal. If it occurs more than once or develops into a pattern, be sure to speak to your doctor as this is not normal and can have a variety of causes.”
READ MORE: 15 things your period could reveal about your health
Bleeding after menopause
Any bleeding that occurs more than 12 months after your last period should always be checked – even if it only occurs once.
“Women starting HRT may experience irregular bleeding while hormones stabilize. However, experienced HRT users or women not taking HRT should seek evaluation for postmenopausal bleeding.”
Even if it’s not something serious, you should always be able to explore possible treatment options and feel supported if something causes you discomfort or distress.
“Women are often afraid of making a fuss or wasting time, but early assessment can be reassuring and allow treatment to begin quickly if necessary,” says Adib. “Trust your instincts and seek advice if something doesn’t feel right.”
READ MORE: The 7 signs of perimenopause that doctors say are most often missing in women – and when you should see your GP
This article by Hannah Bradfield was originally published on Women’s Health UK.
