Postmenopausal bleeding

After menopause, you may not expect to have any more vaginal bleeding. But some people may experience light bleeds or spotting.  

Though it may not seem like a problem, it’s important to seek advice about your postmenopausal bleeding. 

Postmenopausal bleeding is any bleeding that comes from your vagina after menopause. This means any blood that appears a year after you had your last period.¹

Even if you only experience postmenopausal bleeding once, you should see your GP. Do this regardless of the colour of the blood or how much blood there is.  

What causes postmenopausal bleeding?

Lots of different things can cause postmenopausal bleeding.  

These include:

Your GP will ask you some questions about your symptoms and refer you to a specialist for further testing if needed. 

Can postmenopausal bleeding be treated? 

How your postmenopausal bleeding is treated will depend on what is causing it. If you have vaginal atrophy, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or vaginal moisturisers can help prevent bleeding.  

Some people might experience bleeding from taking HRT. If this is the case, you may want to speak to your GP about stopping or taking a different type of HRT.¹

If you have cervical polyps, these can be removed with a procedure.  

The are several treatment options for people with endometrial hyperplasia, ranging from hormonal tablets or an IUS (intrauterine system) to a hysterectomy. 

If you have uterine or ovarian cancer, you will usually be given a total hysterectomy. This is when your ovaries and uterus are removed.¹

Your GP will be able to support you regardless of the reason for your bleeding or the type of treatment you may need.