If you have stopped bleeding because of the menopause, and now have restarted, that needs to be assessed. This could be a warning of overgrowth of the uterine lining that could progress to a uterine cancer if left unchecked. A simple evaluation in the office is needed. If there is an overgrowth, it can usually be treated conservatively and you would be protected. To ignore this warning sign could expose you to serious problems that could advance to a cancer. Consult us at Advanced Gynecology, and we can get you in to see our doctor within a few days. Call 719 6338773.

The average age of menopause is 51, although some women can continue periods until a later age. I am assuming that you haven’t had bleeding for a while and this is new bleeding. The most worrisome causes of bleeding after menopause are cancer and pre-cancer of the lining of the uterus. It can also be cause by a very thin lining that is cracking. It is IMPORTANT that you see a physician for evaluation which should include a vaginal ultrasound to assess the thickness of the lining. If it is over a certain thickness, and endometrial biopsy (done in the office by sliding a thin tube through the cervix in to the uterus) or a D&C (dilation and curettage, usually done as an outpatient surgery) to get lining cells for a pathologist to look at to rule out cancer or pre-cancer. Once that is done, treatment varies depending on the circumstances.

AGAIN, IF THIS BLEEDING IS OCCURRING AFTER MENOPAUSE, IT IS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY AND IMPORTANT TO SEE A PHYSICIAN FOR EVALUATION.

Hope this helps,

Cynthia Tucker, MD