Management of bleeding after menopause
Menopause is the time after the last period. Because the final periods can be irregular, menopause is confirmed 12 months after the last period. Bleeding or spotting after this point is called postmenopausal bleeding.
It may not be normal to bleed or spot 12 months or more after the last period.
Postmenopausal bleeding needs to be checked out; mostly, the cause will be something simple and treatable but occasionally it may be a sign of more serious disease.
Causes of postmenopausal bleeding may include
- Thickening of the endometrium ( lining of the womb) known as endometrial hyperplasia which can be precancerous.
- Growths in the cervix or uterus (called polyps) which are usually not cancerous.
- Thinning and inflammation of the lining of the uterus or of the vagina.
- Women on systemic HRT may have bleeding due to an imbalance between the estrogen and progesterone components.
- Postmenopausal bleeding can also be due to cancer of the endometrium or of the cervix.
What happens next
Treatment of postmenopausal bleeding depends on the cause and Mr Alak Pal will discuss this further with you. Thickened endometrium should be investigated with an endometrial biopsy and endometrial polyps are removed by surgery using a hysteroscope. Atrophic vaginitis may be treated with vaginal estrogen and if appropriate, progesterone helps in the control of thickened lining.
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Patient seen for : Dilation and Curettage
Dr Alak Pal was great. He made me feel comfortable and explained everything clearly, including next steps. Would recommend.
07-04-2022
Patient seen for : Hysteroscopy
Very professional and helpful in explaining everything. Helped me make an informed decision with this vast knowledge.
10-03-2022
Patient seen for : Total Abdominal Hysterectomy
From the initial appointment, surgery, aftercare and to my final appointment, Mr Pal was extremely professional and understanding to my particular medical circumstances. The entire abdominal hysterectomy procedure was extremely satisfactory. He spent time listening to any concerns that I had and explained clearly and simply the process surrounding the surgery. I would highly recommend him for anyone contemplating such a procedure. Additionally, post-surgical care and appointments were excellent too.
18-03-2020
Fantastic doctor, very pleased with consultation. Thanks
16-03-2020
