Postmenopausal Bleeding

At The Ob-Gyn Center in Las Vegas, we understand that bleeding after menopause can be concerning. While it’s often caused by a benign condition, it can sometimes signal something more serious and should never be ignored. If you’ve gone 12 months or more without a period and notice any spotting or bleeding, schedule an appointment with your OB/GYN as soon as possible.

What Is Postmenopausal Bleeding?

Postmenopausal bleeding refers to any vaginal bleeding that occurs a year or more after your last menstrual period. It may appear as light spotting, brown discharge, or bleeding similar to a period. Even if it happens once, it’s important to have it evaluated by a women’s health provider in Las Vegas.

Common Causes of Postmenopausal Bleeding

There are several potential causes of bleeding after menopause, ranging from mild to more serious:

• Vaginal or endometrial atrophy: As estrogen levels decrease, the vaginal and uterine tissues thin and become fragile, leading to irritation or bleeding, especially after sexual activity.
• Polyps: Noncancerous growths on the cervix or inside the uterus can cause irregular bleeding and may need to be removed.
• Endometrial hyperplasia: A thickening of the uterine lining often linked to excess estrogen. In some cases, this can lead to precancerous changes.
• Hormone therapy (HRT): Some forms of hormone replacement therapy can cause spotting or bleeding, particularly when treatment begins.
• Endometrial cancer: Although less common, bleeding after menopause can sometimes be an early sign of uterine or endometrial cancer. Early diagnosis leads to better outcomes.

When to See a Doctor

You should contact your OB/GYN if you experience any of the following:

• Any vaginal bleeding after 12 months without a period
• Light or heavy bleeding
• Bleeding after intercourse
• Persistent spotting or brown discharge
• Bleeding that resembles a menstrual cycle

Even a single episode of bleeding after menopause should be evaluated promptly by your OB/GYN in Las Vegas.

Diagnosis and Testing

Your provider will begin by reviewing your symptoms, medical history, and medications. To determine the cause of postmenopausal bleeding, they may recommend one or more of the following tests:

• Pelvic exam to assess tissue changes
• Transvaginal ultrasound to measure uterine lining thickness
• Endometrial biopsy to test for abnormal or precancerous cells
• Hysteroscopy or D&C for a closer examination of the uterus if needed

These tests help identify the cause of bleeding and rule out more serious conditions like endometrial cancer.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and your overall health. Common approaches include:

• Vaginal estrogen: Restores tissue health and reduces bleeding caused by vaginal atrophy.
• Polyp removal: Eliminates benign growths contributing to irregular bleeding.
• Progesterone therapy: Helps balance hormones in cases of endometrial hyperplasia.
• Surgical treatment: May be recommended if cancer or precancerous cells are detected.

Your OB/GYN will review your results and guide you through the most appropriate treatment options for your needs.

Don’t Wait to Get Checked

While the cause of postmenopausal bleeding is often benign, it’s never considered normal and should always be evaluated. Prompt diagnosis ensures peace of mind and supports long-term health.

Schedule an appointment at The Ob-Gyn Center in Las Vegas today.
Call 702-978-8900 or book online to discuss your symptoms with our women’s health specialists.