Vaginal Bleeding

Vaginal bleeding refers to any bleeding that occurs from the vagina, which can be a normal or abnormal symptom depending on the context and underlying cause.

Types of Vaginal Bleeding

• Menstrual bleeding: This is the most common type of vaginal bleeding, occurring as part of a woman's regular menstrual cycle.
• Postmenopausal bleeding: Bleeding that occurs after menopause, which can be a sign of an underlying medical condition.
• Intermenstrual bleeding: Bleeding that occurs between periods, which can be caused by hormonal changes or other factors.
• Postcoital bleeding: Bleeding that occurs after sexual intercourse, which can be caused by cervical polyps, cervicitis, or other conditions.

Symptoms of Vaginal Bleeding

• Bleeding from the vagina, which can range from light spotting to heavy flow
• Pain or cramping in the pelvic area
• Abdominal pain or tenderness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue or weakness
• Lightheadedness or dizziness

Causes of Vaginal Bleeding

• Hormonal changes or imbalances
• Menstrual cycle irregularities
• Pregnancy or miscarriage
• Infections, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or yeast infections
• Cervical polyps or cancer
• Uterine fibroids or cancer
• Endometrial hyperplasia or cancer
• Blood clotting disorders, such as von Willebrand disease
• Medications, such as anticoagulants or hormone replacement therapy

Treatments for Vaginal Bleeding

• Hormonal therapies: Birth control pills or other hormonal medications to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce bleeding.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): To reduce pain and inflammation.
• Antibiotics: To treat underlying infections, such as PID or bacterial vaginosis.
• Surgery: To remove cervical polyps, fibroids, or other growths that may be causing bleeding.
• Dilation and curettage (D&C): A procedure to remove tissue from the uterus and reduce bleeding.
• Endometrial ablation: A procedure to destroy the lining of the uterus and reduce bleeding.
• Hysterectomy: Surgical removal of the uterus, which may be necessary in severe cases of vaginal bleeding.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:

• Heavy or prolonged bleeding that soaks more than one pad or tampon per hour
• Bleeding that is accompanied by severe pain, fever, or chills
• Bleeding after menopause
• Bleeding during pregnancy
• Signs of shock, such as fainting, dizziness, or rapid heartbeat