Postmenopausal Bleeding
You are in menopause when your last period was at least 12 months ago. The average age for menopause in New Zealand is 50-51 years, but it can range between 40 and 60 years of age.
Possible causes
Any bleeding in menopause is abnormal and needs to be investigated. Most of the time it is caused by fragile tissues (vagina, endometrium) due to absent estrogen production as the ovaries cease to ovulate eggs (genito-urinary syndrome of menopause and/or instability of the lining of the womb).
Endometrial hyperplasia and cancer may be the cause in 5-10% of cases, and if promptly attended to, treatment is highly successful.
What to do
If you experience bleeding in menopause, you should see your GP as soon as possible.
We can help
If you are experiencing postmenopausal bleeding and would like to talk to us about how we can help, please feel free to contact us. You can also request an appointment online.
Related conditions
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Low levels of estrogen during menopause can cause dryness and skin tears in the vagina, making sex less comfortable
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Hyperplasia occurs when the inside lining of the uterus starts to behave abnormally and is a potential ‘pre-cancer’.
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This is caused by low estrogen levels when the vagina and endometrium become prone to bleeding and spotting.
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Symptoms vary, and can include irregular or absent periods, excess hair, weight gain or difficulty falling pregnant.
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A procedure to remove a woman’s uterus. This can be achieved via either abdominal keyhole surgery, abdominal incision, or performed through the vagina.
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A common procedure, placing a thin camera through the cervix to evaluate the inside of the uterus. This may be as an investigation or a treatment.
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A simple treatment is to use an estrogen-containing cream. This makes the walls of the vagina healthier and more robust, improves the blood supply,
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Treatment is generally not required. Vaginal estrogen treatment may be beneficial. It is important to rule out other causes of bleeding such as