Unusual bleeding in women

At the menopause, a woman’s periods either stop abruptly, or become irregular in timing as well as the amount of blood lost. Eventually they stop altogether because ovulation has ceased, and the woman’s reproductive life has come to an end.

Once they have finally stopped, any further bleeding, either after sex or for no obvious reason must be investigated by a doctor.

This is because it may be a symptom of cancer of the cervix or cancer of the womb.

Although there are many other causes of abnormal vaginal bleeding, it is important that these are checked by your GP.

This article was published on Mon 7 February 2011