Spotty bleeding after menopause may indicate a serious health problem. It is critical to seek immediate medical care for this problem. The American College of Gynecologists states: "Spotting after menopause is often a symptom of endometrial or cervical cancer." Other times the spotting may simply relate to hormonal fluctuations as the body settles into menopause. It is crucial to immediately seek a medical appointment to evaluate any spotting of blood after menopause.
Causes of Spotting After Menopause
Spotting after menopause may be caused by "thinning of uterine lining, hormone therapy, polyps (noncancerous growths), and endometrial or cervical cancer," according to the American College of Gynecologists. Other possible causes include certain drugs, thyroid problems, fibroids, hormonal changes and infection of the uterus,
Spotting as a Symptom of Endometrial Cancer
Spotting after menopause, especially in a woman over age 60, may indicate the presence of endometrial cancer. The spotting may be an ongoing problem or occur randomly. When spotting happens after menopause, "one in eight women will receive a diagnosis of endometrial cancer," according to the American College of Gynecologists, and "after menopause, you should not have any bleeding.".
Spotting Linked to Hormone Replacement Therapy
In the first six months of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) spotting after menopause may occur. It is important to notify your physician of any spotting and to keep a log of the severity and duration of the problem. Also list any other symptoms that occur at the same time as the spotting.
Take Action
If you notice spotting after going through menopause, immediately seek a medical evaluation. This symptom might indicate cancer or it could be due to hormonal fluctuations. But rather than worry, get it checked out promptly. It's critical to catch and treat cancer at an early stage.
Treatment of Spotting After Menopause
Your doctor likely will order certain tests to evaluate possible causes of the spotting. These include a physical exam, Pap smear, MRI and vaginal ultrasound,
