Abnormal vaginal bleeding can relate to an issue with your reproductive system (a gynecologic condition) or to other medical problems or certain medications. If you have reached menopause — defined as 12 consecutive months, give or take, without a menstrual period — subsequent vaginal bleeding may be a cause for concern and should be evaluated.

Possible causes of abnormal vaginal bleeding include:

Cancers and precancerous conditions

1. Cervical cancer
2. Endometrial cancer (uterine cancer)
3. Endometrial hyperplasia
4. Ovarian cancer
5. Uterine sarcoma
6. Vaginal cancer

Endocrine system factors

1. Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
2. Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
3. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
4. Stopping or changing birth control pills or menopausal hormone therapy (withdrawal bleeding)

Fertility and reproduction factors

1. Ectopic pregnancy
2. Fluctuating hormone levels
3. Miscarriage (before the 20th week of pregnancy)
4. Pregnancy
5. Random ovulatory cycles
6. Sexual intercourse
7. Perimenopause (the transition time before menopause)
8. Vaginal atrophy (genitourinary syndrome of menopause) 

Infections

1. Cervicitis
2. Chlamydia trachomatis
3. Endometritis
4. Gonorrhea
5. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
6. Ureaplasma vaginitis
7. Vaginitis

Medical conditions

1. Celiac disease
2. Severe systemic disease, such as kidney or liver disease
3. Thrombocytopenia
4. Von Willebrand disease (and other blood clotting disorders)

Medications and devices

1. Forgotten (retained) tampon
2. Intrauterine device (IUD)
3. Stopping or changing birth control pills or menopausal hormone therapy (withdrawal bleeding)
4. Tamoxifen side effect

Noncancerous growths and other uterine conditions

1. Adenomyosis
2. Cervical polyps — noncancerous (benign) growths on your cervix
3. Uterine fibroids
4. Uterine polyps (endometrial polyps)

Trauma

1. Blunt trauma or penetrating injury to the vagina or cervix
2. Sexual abuse

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Jan. 11, 2018