What is Bleeding between Periods?
Bleeding between periods refers to any vaginal bleeding that occurs outside of a normal period. This is also known as Intermenstrual Bleeding or Spotting.
Bleeding between periods may either be similar to a normal period, heavier or lighter flow with some just some spotting.
The bleeding may also be once off or may last for a number of days.
It is important to understand that regardless of the flow or the duration of bleeding, Intermenstrual Bleeding is never normal. It should always be checked by your doctor for further testing, diagnosis and treatment.
Causes of Bleeding between Periods
There are several different causes for bleeding between periods. Some causes are mild and easy to treat, while others can indicate an underlying serious condition.
As long as you experience any bleeding between periods, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible.
Some of the causes include:
Hormonal Imbalance
The menstrual cycle is regulated by important hormones such estrogen, progesterone and also our thyroid hormone.
Imbalances in these hormonal levels can lead to abnormal bleeding.
The use of hormonal medications such as hormonal birth control may also result in some irregular bleeding that is out of your menstrual cycle.
Pregnancy Complications
Abnormal bleeding between periods could be a sign of pregnancy or pregnancy complication.
Bleeding could be a sign of a miscarriage, or even an ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy that is outside the womb).
Infections
Intermenstrual bleeding can also be a result of infection and inflammation of your reproductive organs.
Causes of infection include: sexually transmitted infections, vaginal infections or even pelvic inflammatory disease.
Cancer
Bleeding between periods unfortunately can also be a presenting sign of more sinister causes like cancer. This includes cervical cancer or womb cancer.
Abnormal growths in the reproductive system
Abnormal growths in the womb or cervix such as polyps or fibroids or cysts and lead to abnormal spotting or bleeding between your periods.
When to See a Doctor?
You should always see a doctor for a proper consultation, diagnosis and treatment if you experience any bleeding between your periods.
While most of the time, the underlying cause is not serious, intermenstrual bleeding can occasionally be the only sign or symptom for a serious underlying condition like cancer, and should always be investigated properly.
What to Expect at Your Doctor's Appointment?
If it is your first time visiting a women’s health clinic for a female related issue, here is what you can expect.
Your doctor will first begin with a thorough medical history, which includes a sexual history as well.
Next, a detailed physical examination will be performed. This will include a pelvic examination.
Then, your doctor will go through a detailed list of necessary investigations which are required based on your condition as well as recommend the necessary and appropriate treatment.
Complications of Bleeding between Periods
If you are experiencing any abnormal bleeding or spotting between periods, it is important to seek a professional medical opinion in a timely manner to avoid unwanted complications.
Complications usually arise as a result of delayed diagnosis or delay in seeking treatment.
Some complications can potentially be life threatening if it involves conditions such as ectopic pregnancy, or severe heavy bleeding.
Other complications that can arise include untreated infections that can lead to long term scarring in the womb or pelvic inflammatory disease.
Last but not least, a delay in cancer diagnosis and treatment can also lead to serious complications.
Treatment of Bleeding between Periods
It is important to consult a doctor if you are experiencing abnormal bleeding between periods. Treatment will vary depending on the underlying cause of the bleeding.
Vaginal bleeding cannot and should not be treated without knowing the cause.
Ezra Clinic specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions like abnormal bleeding between periods,as well as other menstrual health issues for women.
We strive to provide the safe and comfortable space that women need to seek the necessary treatment for this.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is not possible to tell if your bleeding is caused by a serious condition without consulting a doctor and having the necessary investigations performed.
Do see a doctor if you experience any abnormal bleeding.
Bleeding between periods should always be evaluated by your doctor and should not be ignored.
It is difficult to differentiate based on symptoms alone. Once your doctor has ruled out all the necessary serious causes, then we may sometimes attribute it to mid cycle ovulation bleeding.
AUTHOR
Dr Michelle Chia
Medical Director
After graduating from the National University of Singapore, Dr Michelle's journey allowed her to train in Women's Health and Aesthetic Medicine. Her experience has led her to be featured on multiple media platforms including Radio Stations and prominent Magazines like Her World, Women's Weekly and CLEO. Her work has also received recognition both locally and internationally in several Medical Conferences.
Ezra Clinic is a Women’s Health, Wellness and Aesthetic Clinic that is conveniently located at the top floor of Royal Square Medical Suites in Novena, Singapore’s Medical Health Hub.
Helmed by Dr Michelle Chia, Ezra Clinic is your chosen one stop clinic for all your Women’s Health and Wellness needs.
Address
101 Irrawaddy Road #21-09, Royal Square Medical Centre, Singapore 329565