Possible Causes Of Intermenstrual Bleeding

Vaginal bleeding outside of menstruation, also called “intermenstrual bleeding”, is usually a cause for concern for women facing them. They may signal the presence of a disease of the female reproductive system. Here are the main causes of intermenstrual bleeding!

Although intermenstrual bleeding is not considered normal, it is not uncommon and is not always a symptom of a serious health problem. For this reason, any woman should be well informed about the possible causes of intermenstrual bleeding. In this way, hasty conclusions can be avoided.

What do we need to know about intermenstrual bleeding?

A normal menstrual cycle varies between 21 and 35 days, the average being 28 days. The normal menstrual flow lasts between two and seven days, the total lost blood varying between 30 and 80 ml.

Abnormal vaginal bleeding occurs when a minor bleed occurs between the last day of the previous menstrual cycle and the beginning of the next menstrual period.

Experts claim that almost all women have intermenstrual bleeding at least once in their lives. In most cases, this symptom is not caused by a major health problem.

However, experts recommend that women consult a doctor if they notice intermenstrual bleeding. This may be a symptom of cancer or a precancerous lesion.

What are the possible causes of intermenstrual bleeding?

Ovulation

One of the main causes of intermenstrual bleeding is ovulation. During this process, the body produces more estrogen, a hormone associated with the detachment of the ovary. This “excess” of estrogen can be the trigger for vaginal bleeding between periods, especially if it occurs between the 13th and 16th day of the menstrual cycle.

In this case, the color of the removed blood varies between pink and brown, the bleeding being sometimes accompanied by secretions of whitish cervical mucus and cramps in the lower abdomen.

Stress

Physical and mental stress can be among the possible causes of intermenstrual bleeding. Tense and stressful periods affect the brain and can alter the normal menstrual cycle, causing brown spills a few days after or before regular menstruation.

Undiagnosed pregnancies

Many women realize that they are pregnant only when they see their doctor because of unexplained vaginal bleeding. In the first few weeks of pregnancy, the process of implanting the embryo in the uterus can cause bleeding. But it is essential to consult a doctor because these bleedings can also be triggered by an ectopic pregnancy.

In what situations does intermenstrual bleeding signal an emergency?

Intermenstrual bleeding signals a medical emergency if they are as abundant — or even more abundant — than regular menstrual flows. You should also see your doctor if the blood that is spilled is deep red, brown, or black. Take action if you have other associated symptoms, such as sweating, dizziness, arrhythmia or abdominal pain.

If you bleed a lot, but not more abundantly than during a regular period, bleeding may signal the presence of a fibroid. In any case, heavy intermenstrual bleeding should be investigated by a doctor. The specialist can determine if the problem has its origin in the cervix, uterus or vagina.

What is the significance of vaginal bleeding after menopause?

Menopause is the permanent cessation of menstruation in women. However, after a period of regular vaginal bleeding, some postmenopausal women may experience minor or even heavy bleeding. These are possible warning signals.

After menopause, abnormal vaginal bleeding may signal the presence of a fibroid or polyp. But in general, this is a symptom of a precancerous lesion or a type of cancer of the female reproductive system.

What investigations need to be conducted?

One of the most common methods of investigating gynecological abnormalities is the Pap test. The results of this test are useful in determining if the source of bleeding is the uterus. In addition, through it, possible cancer cells in the cervix can be identified. Another useful method of investigation to detect abnormalities in the uterus and ovaries is ultrasound.

If neither of the two methods mentioned fails to elucidate the cause of intermenstrual bleeding, hysteroscopy can ultimately be used. This invasive method involves inserting a tiny chamber into the uterus through the vagina in order to investigate the problem in detail.