What causes nosebleeds before and after menstruation?
Nov 27, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
In general, nosebleeds occurring around the menstrual period may be caused by hormonal fluctuations, dry environment, allergic rhinitis, chronic sinusitis, or deviated nasal septum. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to determine the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment under a doctor's guidance. In daily life, it's important to develop good habits, such as avoiding picking the nose with hands and refraining from strenuous exercise. Wear a mask when going outdoors depending on environmental conditions to reduce irritation to the nasal mucosa.
Generally, nosebleeds occurring before or after menstruation may be caused by hormonal fluctuations, dry environments, allergic rhinitis, chronic sinusitis, or deviated nasal septum. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to determine the exact cause and receive targeted treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Hormonal fluctuations: Estrogen levels change sharply before and after menstruation, causing nasal mucosal blood vessels to dilate and become congested, making them prone to rupture and bleeding. Regular use of normal saline nasal spray can help moisturize the mucosa. Avoid forceful nose-blowing and maintain a light diet to reduce vascular irritation.
2. Dry environment: In dry seasons such as autumn and winter or in air-conditioned rooms, the nasal mucosa loses moisture and becomes fragile. During the menstrual period, the body is more sensitive and thus more susceptible to nosebleeds. Using a humidifier indoors, applying erythromycin ointment inside the nasal passages to maintain moisture, and drinking plenty of water to replenish bodily fluids are helpful measures.
3. Allergic rhinitis: Inflammation triggered by allergens such as pollen or dust mites causes nasal mucosal congestion and swelling, increasing the risk of bleeding, often accompanied by nasal itching and sneezing. Medications such as loratadine tablets, cetirizine hydrochloride drops, and montelukast sodium chewable tablets may be used as directed by a physician. Maintaining indoor cleanliness and avoiding allergens in daily life are also important.
4. Chronic sinusitis: Bacterial infection leads to inflammation of the sinuses, which chronically irritates the nasal mucosa and results in bleeding, often associated with purulent nasal discharge and headaches. Treatments may include medications such as cefaclor capsules, eucalyptus citronellal enteric soft capsules, and budesonide nasal spray, as prescribed. In severe cases, sinus puncture and irrigation may be required to remove purulent secretions and reduce inflammation.
5. Deviated nasal septum: A structural deviation of the nasal septum toward one side makes the mucosa on the protruding side thin and easily irritated, leading to bleeding—symptoms that may worsen around menstruation. Mild cases may be managed with Yunnan Baiyao for hemostasis, while recurrent bleeding may require septoplasty to correct the deviation and reduce mucosal damage.
In daily life, it is important to develop good habits: avoid picking the nose, refrain from strenuous exercise, wear masks outdoors when necessary to minimize nasal mucosal irritation, and maintain a regular sleep schedule to stabilize hormonal levels.
