What causes bleeding after the menstrual period?

Nov 28, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

There has been bleeding again after the most recent menstrual period. What could be causing this?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu

Bleeding after the menstrual period can have several possible causes.

  1. Ovulation bleeding: If the bleeding occurs about a week after menstruation, is light, and lasts about three days, it is usually considered ovulation-related bleeding. This is associated with changes in estrogen and progesterone levels and generally does not require special treatment.
  2. Hormonal imbalance: This is one of the most common causes, especially in adolescents and perimenopausal women. Fluctuations in hormone levels may lead to abnormal endometrial proliferation or shedding, resulting in bleeding.
  3. Endocrine disorders: Conditions such as luteal phase deficiency can cause postmenstrual bleeding that is prolonged or irregular. A diagnosis can be made by testing the six sex hormones, and drug treatment may be administered under a doctor's guidance after confirmation.
  4. Endometriosis: This condition involves the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus, such as on the ovaries or fallopian tubes, and can cause pain and abnormal bleeding.
  5. Uterine fibroids or polyps: These are non-cancerous growths or proliferations within the uterus that may sometimes cause bleeding.
  6. Cervical diseases: Conditions such as cervical inflammation, cervical polyps, or cervical cancer may also cause bleeding.