Vaginal bleeding without menstruation: why is it?

The menstruation (also known by the names of period or ruler) is the Bleeding that women have when the egg is not fertilized, which was expelled from the ovary to be fertilized. It happens as part of a woman's menstrual cycle, and we can consider it as normal vaginal bleeding, which happens without any type of health problem. This bleeding can be excessive and abundant (what is medically known as menorrhagia), or be totally and absolutely normal.

The period is part of the menstrual cycle, which starts on the first day of menstruation and tends to last around 28 days, although a cycle can actually last between 23 to 35 days, be completely regular or no However, advance or delay.

Even though Menstruation is one of the main causes of bleeding, the truth is that it does not always become the only cause.

For this reason when the woman finds an abnormal bleeding in her underwear that in reality has nothing to do with her menstruation (especially because she is not in the days when the period or rule has to come) it is common to start to be alarmed and worry. That's right. It is what is also known as vaginal bleeding between periods, or as unusual bleeding, since the most common is that the bleeding occurs normally during the menstrual cycle, when it has the period.

It is always best to receive the proper medical attention, which will help to receive the correct diagnosis of health by the specialist. However, next we will investigate a little more about what may be the reasons for that bleeding without menstruation.

Causes of vaginal bleeding without period and diseases that can cause it

We must bear in mind that the bleeding that occurs between periods, and that in reality has nothing to do with menstruation, can be caused by different conditions or problems. However, The vast majority is due to benign problems and can be treated.

But they can also be due to a precancer or cancer, so any unusual bleeding should always be evaluated by the gynecologist.

Among the causes that most commonly tend to cause the appearance of abnormal bleeding without menstruation, we can mention the following:

  • Conception and implantation of the fertilized ovule: it is what is known as implantation bleeding, although it does not always occur. Occurs when a pregnancy has occurred and the fertilized egg is implanted in the uterus, which can cause a slight bleeding. In these cases the blood tends to be red, clear, and it usually presents as a slight droplet that can sometimes be confused with the onset of menstruation.
  • Ectopic pregnancy: it is a pregnancy that occurs outside the womb as a result of the movement of the ovum through the fallopian tubes is delayed or blocked.
  • Spontaneous abortion: consists in the loss of pregnancy before week 20 of gestation. It is common for many women to suffer a miscarriage even without knowing it, especially at the beginning of pregnancy. It is estimated that out of every 10 pregnancies between 1 and 2 end in spontaneous abortion.
  • Myomas or uterine polyps: are a common condition that affects 1 in 5 women during their childbearing years. They can be tiny or grow to a large size. It is believed that among the reasons that cause its appearance may be due to hormonal changes and hereditary reasons.
  • Cervicitis: consists of inflammation or infection of the cervix, often as a result of an infection acquired during sexual activity.
  • Birth control pills or the use of the IUD: Some contraceptive products can cause occasional staining. This is the case, for example, of the start or suspension of contraceptive pills, or the use of the IUD.
  • Hypoactive thyroid: consists of the existence of a low thyroid function. The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck, which becomes one of the most important endocrine glands in the production of hormones. When the thyroid function is diminished it is possible the appearance of abnormal bleeding.
  • Precancer or cancer of the uterus or cervix: in the presence of tumors located in the cervix it is possible the existence of abnormal bleeding.

What to do in the case of abnormal bleeding?

If the bleeding is punctual, it is advisable to observe and wait, verifying the evolution of the symptoms, since in reality there are many causes - mostly benign and banal - that can cause such bleeding and with the same that appears can disappear.

However, if bleeding occurs during pregnancy, after menopause, is accompanied by other symptoms (such as pain, fatigue, vomiting ...) or bleeding is abundant it is very important to go to the doctor to carry out a rigorous physical examination .

It is likely that this test includes performing an ultrasound, ideal for observing the vagina inwardly and discovering more about what may be causing the bleeding. In case of severe hemorrhage it is recommended to go quickly to your gynecologist or to the emergency room. This article is published for informational purposes only. It can not and should not replace the consultation with a Physician. We advise you to consult your Trusted Doctor.

Dr. Chris DeStephano Discusses Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (March 2024)