25 June 2019
 Categories: , Blog

If you're a woman who has always had a relatively normal menstrual cycle, unexplained vaginal bleeding outside of your menstrual period can be alarming. If you happen to experience unexplained vaginal bleeding when you're not on your menstrual period, you should not ignore it. In this type of situation, it is important to make an appointment with your gynecologist for an exam so a proper diagnosis can be made and a treatment plan can be developed. For your own peace of mind, as well as your health, you should see your gynecologist as soon as possible after experiencing unexplained vaginal bleeding. Some common causes of unexplained vaginal bleeding include the following.

Pregnancy

One of the most common reasons that a woman may experience vaginal bleeding outside of her menstrual period is due to pregnancy. Depending on the length of your regular menstrual cycles, it is possible to have unexplained vaginal bleeding due to pregnancy even if you have not missed a period. In the event of pregnancy, the bleeding can be caused when the fertilized embryo implants into the uterus. If you are of childbearing age and experience any spotting or bleeding, it is a good idea to take a pregnancy test or consult your gynecologist to rule out pregnancy.

Hormone Imbalance

Another cause of unexplained vaginal bleeding is a hormone imbalance. This most often occurs in teenagers and women who are approaching menopause, but women of any age can have an undiagnosed hormone imbalance. When you have unexplained vaginal bleeding, it is a good idea to see your gynecologist to have your hormone levels checked. Checking your hormone levels only requires a simple blood test, and in most cases, balancing your hormones is an easy fix. In some cases, birth control pills may be prescribed, but there are other prescription options that can regulate hormone levels.

Fibroids or Polyps

Fibroids and polyps are non-cancerous growths that can form inside the uterus. Many polyps and fibroids are small in size, but it is possible for them to grow quite large. A woman can have multiple fibroids or polyps at the same time, and in some cases, these growths can cause very painful periods and other reproductive issues. They can also be responsible for unexplained vaginal bleeding outside of a menstrual period. Fibroids and polyps can be found during a pelvic exam, and if your gynecologist suspects fibroids or polyps, you may undergo an ultrasound before a treatment plan is developed.