The female anatomy includes reproductive organs in the pelvis. Monthly bleeding, or menstruation, is normal for reproductive-age females, but other conditions can also result in bloody vaginal discharge, some of which are not worrisome, while others indicate a serious medical condition. Additionally, irritation to the cervix, which is the opening to the uterus, or irritation to the vaginal walls, can also cause bloody discharge.
Menstruation
For women in their childbearing years, each month in preparation for pregnancy, the lining of the uterus, also referred to as the endometrium, thickens to prepare for fertilization and implantation, and is then shed, resulting in a bloody discharge. The bleeding leaves the uterus, moves through the cervix and out of the body through the vagina. The average menstrual period lasts between three and seven days, according to Merck Manuals, and usually occurs every 25 to 36 days. The heaviness of the bleeding varies among women and does not normally produce clots unless the woman experiences heavy bleeding.
Intrauterine Device
An intrauterine device, also referred to as an IUD, helps prevent pregnancy by releasing a hormone into the uterus or by preventing fertilization and implantation, depending on which type is used. A physician inserts the T-shaped device into the uterus and must remove it once the woman no longer wishes to use it for birth control. Possible side effects of an intrauterine device include vaginal bleeding. Bleeding with an intrauterine device can occur between menstrual periods, according to The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
Cancer
Cancer in the female reproductive organs including the uterus and cervix can cause vaginal bleeding. Endometrial and cervical cancer both have abnormal vaginal bleeding as symptoms of the conditions. The abnormal bleeding occurs in around 90 percent of women with endometrial cancer. The bleeding may occur between menstrual periods or after menopause. Symptoms of cervical cancer include a watery, bloody vaginal discharge and bleeding between periods, following menopause and after sexual intercourse, according to MayoClinic.com.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases and Infections
Some sexually transmitted diseases can cause vaginal bleeding due to the infection. Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection that causes symptoms in females such as pain during urination, increased vaginal discharge and bleeding between menstrual periods, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Additional vaginal infections and diseases transmitted through sexual intercourse that can cause vaginal bleeding include trichomoniasis and a vaginal yeast infection.
