Bleeding outside of a woman's regular menstrual cycle can be caused by several factors. It's crucial to understand that this isn't always a serious issue, but it always warrants a check-up with a doctor to determine the underlying cause.
Potential Causes of Non-Menstrual Bleeding:
Several factors can lead to vaginal bleeding outside of a woman's period, including:
- Infection: Various infections, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs), can cause vaginal bleeding. Samitivej Hospitals mentions this as a potential cause of abnormal vaginal bleeding.
- Underlying Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as cervical polyps or fibroids, can contribute to bleeding. Cleveland Clinic highlights this as a possible cause.
- Medication Side Effects: Some medications can cause irregular bleeding as a side effect. This is an important factor to consider, especially if she's started any new medications recently.
- Hormonal Imbalance: Fluctuations in hormone levels can disrupt the menstrual cycle and cause spotting or bleeding between periods. This is a common factor that many resources like Better Health Channel mention.
- Implantation Bleeding: While less common, implantation bleeding can occur around the time of a missed period and is sometimes mistaken for a lighter period. Mayo Clinic discusses implantation bleeding in the context of early pregnancy symptoms.
- Trauma: Physical trauma to the vagina or cervix can also cause bleeding. This includes injuries sustained during sexual intercourse. NHS mentions bleeding after sex as a potential issue.
Seeking Medical Attention:
While many causes of non-menstrual bleeding are benign, it's vital to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough examination and determine the exact cause, offering appropriate treatment or management strategies. Delaying a visit to the doctor could potentially lead to complications if an underlying condition is present.
