It is common for women to experience abnormal vaginal bleeding at some point in their lives. Vaginal bleeding is abnormal when:
- You are not expecting your period
- The menstrual flow is lighter or heavier than usual
- Before age 9, when you are pregnant, or after menopause
Abnormal vaginal bleeding can be caused by a variety of things, some of which are not dangerous. However, other cases could be a sign of a serious medical condition. It especially may be a sign of problems during pregnancy; so if you are pregnant make sure to get it checked by a doctor.
Some other possible causes of abnormal bleeding include:
- Ovulation can trigger bleeding mid-cycle
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormone disorder that can disrupt ovulation
- Infections in the pelvic organs (including STIs) can result in abnormal bleeding, especially after douching
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is characterized by inflammation of the uterus, fallopian tubes or ovaries, often causing abnormal bleeding.
- Certain contraceptives, including birth control pills and intrauterine devices (IUDs), can also cause abnormal vaginal bleeding.
A number of serious causes may be:
- Sexual abuse
- An object lodged in the vagina
- Uterine fibroids
- Urethral prolapse or polyps
- Diabetes
- Hyperthyroidism
- Cancer of the cervix, uterus, ovaries or vagina
If you experience abnormal vaginal bleeding, make sure to check with your doctor that it is not a sign of something serious.
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Source: http://www.webmd.com/women/tc/abnormal-vaginal-bleeding-topic-overview
