Bleeding after menopause: Is it normal?

I thought I was in menopause because I haven't had a period in three years. But then last month, I suddenly got my period again. What's up? I'm 50 years old.

- Edie / Canada

Answer

Menopause is the end of menstruation. In clinical terms, you reach menopause when you haven't had a period for 12 months. Vaginal bleeding after menopause is not normal and should be evaluated by your doctor. The cause of your bleeding may be entirely harmless. However, it's important to know that postmenopausal bleeding has a number of serious causes, including cancer. So see your doctor promptly.

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