Abnormal Bleeding

Unusual bleeding from your vagina, whether it is during your period or not, can be a sign of a variety of gynaecological concerns, such as:

In some women, the production of too much oestrogen or progesterone may cause a hormone imbalance, resulting in abnormal bleeding. Some conditions associated with a hormonal imbalance include anovulation (when an egg does not release from the ovary during the menstrual cycle), thyroid disease or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Abnormal bleeding can often be a sign of abnormalities in the structure of your uterus. Polyps, fibroids, cysts and endometriosis are common structural abnormalities that many women suffer from.

Abnormal bleeding can occasionally indicate a more severe condition such as cancer. This is why it is essential to get it checked out sooner rather than later. Early detection will increase your treatment options.

Some cancers that could cause abnormal bleeding include:

• Uterine cancer
• Cervical cancer
• Vaginal cancer
• Ovarian cancer

If you have a sexually transmitted disease or an infection, you could experience abnormal bleeding. Some STDs and infections that could cause you to have this symptom include:

• Trichomoniasis (an infection caused by a protozoan parasite)
• Cervicitis (inflammation of the cervix and the lower, narrow end of the uterus)
• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhoea
• Endometritis
• Vaginitis