Understanding Bleeding During Premenopause: Causes & What to Expect

Vaginal bleeding that happens at some time other than during your menstrual period may cause you to be concerned. However, as you get closer to menopause, you may experience changes in your menstrual cycle or develop other medical conditions that can cause this bleeding. According to the Mayo Clinic and the National Library of Medicine, bleeding during premenopause may indicate changes in hormone levels or certain gynecological disorders.

Endometriosis

• Endometriosis is a disorder of the lining of your uterus that may cause you to have abdominal and pelvic cramping, as well as vaginal bleeding.

Hormone Changes

• Your levels of estrogen and progesterone decrease as you get closer to menopause, and during this premenopause stage, you may have irregular bleeding due to fluctuating hormones.

Medications

• Bleeding during premenopause may be a side effect of using hormonal contraceptives, such as the pill, patch or vaginal ring.

Miscarriage

• If you are pregnant, bleeding before menopause could indicate that you are having a miscarriage, which requires medical evaluation.

Pregnancy

• Very light bleeding or spotting around the time you might expect your period may be a sign that you are pregnant if it occurs before you have completed menopause.

Uterine Growths

• Abnormal growths in your uterus, including polyps, tumors and fibroids, may cause you to experience otherwise unexplained vaginal bleeding.