Abnormal Bleeding: Causes and Concerns for Women

Intermenstrual bleeding

Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my condition.
My menstrual period in February was from February 27 to March 5, but I did not have a period in March.
Starting on March 25, I began to experience light bleeding, mostly brown in color.
I later visited a gynecologist and took medication to induce menstruation from April 3 to April 7.
My period started on April 21.
On the night of May 10, I suddenly had very light pink bleeding, and the next day I started bleeding, which varied between bright red, light red, and light brown until May 15.
I had sexual intercourse on May 1 and May 5 (with protection).
I would like to know the reason for my bleeding.

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/05/15

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

In February, the menstrual period was from February 27 to March 5.
The period in March did not occur, but starting on March 25, there was light bleeding, mostly brown in color.
Later, I visited a gynecologist, and from April 3 to April 7, I took medication to induce menstruation, and my period started on April 21.
On the night of May 10, I suddenly experienced very light pink bleeding, and the next day, bleeding began, sometimes bright red, sometimes light pink, or light brown, continuing until May 15.
I had sexual intercourse on May 1 and May 5 (with protection).
I would like to ask about the reason for my bleeding.
Answer: The menstrual period started on April 21, and the light pink bleeding on the night of May 10, followed by bleeding the next day, is likely due to ovulation.

Reply Date: 2018/05/15

More Info

Abnormal bleeding can be a source of significant concern for many women, and understanding its causes is essential for addressing any underlying issues. Based on the information you provided, it appears that you have experienced irregular bleeding patterns following your menstrual cycle, which can be attributed to several factors.

Firstly, it is important to note that menstrual cycles can vary significantly among individuals, and factors such as stress, hormonal imbalances, and lifestyle changes can contribute to irregularities. In your case, the absence of menstruation in March followed by light bleeding in late March and early April suggests that your body may have been undergoing hormonal fluctuations. The use of medication to induce menstruation can also affect your cycle, as it alters the natural hormonal balance in your body.

The bleeding you experienced starting on March 25, which was primarily brown in color, could indicate old blood that was taking longer to exit the body. This is not uncommon and can happen when the menstrual flow is lighter or when there is a delay in the shedding of the uterine lining. The subsequent use of medication to induce menstruation may have contributed to the changes in your bleeding pattern.

The light bleeding you experienced in May, which varied in color from light red to brown, could be attributed to several factors. One possibility is that this could be a form of ovulation bleeding, which occurs when the ovary releases an egg and can sometimes cause light spotting. This type of bleeding is typically light and short-lived, but it can vary in color and consistency. Given that you had sexual intercourse around the time of this bleeding, it is also important to consider the possibility of implantation bleeding, which can occur if a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. However, since you mentioned using protection, the likelihood of pregnancy is reduced.

Another potential cause for the irregular bleeding could be hormonal fluctuations due to stress or lifestyle changes. Stress is known to impact the hypothalamus, which regulates the hormones responsible for menstruation. Changes in sleep patterns, diet, and exercise can also influence your menstrual cycle. If you have been experiencing increased stress or changes in your routine, this could be a contributing factor to your abnormal bleeding.

It is also worth noting that certain medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), fibroids, or endometriosis, can lead to irregular bleeding. While your gynecologist has likely ruled out some of these conditions through examinations and tests, it may be beneficial to discuss your concerns further with them, especially if the irregular bleeding persists.

In conclusion, while the irregular bleeding you are experiencing can be concerning, it is often related to hormonal fluctuations, stress, or other benign factors. It is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider, who can offer further evaluation and guidance tailored to your specific situation. Keeping a detailed record of your menstrual cycle, including the timing, color, and amount of bleeding, can also be helpful for your doctor in diagnosing any potential issues. If the abnormal bleeding continues or worsens, further investigation may be warranted to ensure that there are no underlying health concerns that need to be addressed.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding: Causes and Solutions

I would like to ask about recent abnormal bleeding, which is not related to stress, and I am unsure of the cause. I previously had a Pap smear that showed no issues. Recently, I have been trying to lose weight and have developed a habit of jogging. Could this be the reason for my...

Dr. Yang Wangjun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: When experiencing abnormal vaginal bleeding, the first step is to rule out bleeding caused by pregnancy. Next, a pelvic examination and ultrasound should be performed to check for any organic causes of bleeding, such as cervical polyps or lacerations. Most cases of abnorma...

Understanding Abnormal Post-Coital Bleeding: Causes and Solutions

Hello doctor, for the past six months, I have been experiencing slight spotting the day after intercourse, which lasts for about ten days, and then it stops until my next period. I have consulted a physician and undergone two Pap smears, pelvic examinations, and a colposcopy, all...

Dr. Wu Zongcheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
The causes of abnormal bleeding can be divided into two main categories: 1. Tumors: such as uterine fibroids, uterine polyps, and malignant uterine tumors. 2. Functional bleeding: such as endocrine disorders and poor uterine contractions caused by contraceptive devices. First, ...

Understanding Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: Causes and Management

Doctor, I have not engaged in sexual intercourse. Since the end of my menstrual period in May this year, I have been experiencing a large amount of discharge, which has included blood. After my menstrual period ended in June, I started having abnormal bleeding and orange-colored ...

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. "Abnormal vaginal bleeding" has numerous causes, including lifestyle habits, stress, age, vaginal infections, benign gynecological conditions, and malignant tumors, among others. Therefore, it is recommended that you visit a professional obstetrician-gynecologist for...

Understanding Abnormal Bleeding: Causes and Concerns for Women

I am #145291. I later visited a doctor who suggested that it might be due to excessive stress. On April 13th or 14th, I noticed a slight increase in blood flow, but it was manageable with a panty liner; the bleeding was not heavy enough to require a sanitary pad, and there was al...

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, Miss: Irregular lifestyle is a common cause of menstrual disorders, but if it persists for a period of time, it is recommended to visit a gynecologist for further examination. Hualien Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, cares about your health.