Menopause is the last stage of a woman’s menstrual cycle. It is considered normal to bleed after menopause though excessive bleeding, discomfort or pain does call for medical attention. Minor tissue damage, injury to vagina or break down of tissues can cause bleeding. Decline in estrogen levels cause the vaginal lining to be dry and elastic leading to a breakdown in the tissues. Such bleeding can be contained with help of medical intervention that helps balance estrogen levels in the body. Stress, Depression, anxiety attacks, weight loss and other health disorders can also lead to bleeding in post menopausal woman. An ultrasound should be the best indicator to understand any underlying complications. Bleeding after menopause within twelve months is considered normal but a gap of five years or so definitely calls for a visit to the doctor.
Some common reasons that lead to bleeding after menopause could be: hormonal imbalances, fibroids or tumors in uterus, other growth lining the uterus or use of birth control pills. Lack of nutrition or inadequate dietary requirements can also cause vaginal bleeding in post menopausal women. Nutrients in the system ensure balance of hormones, lack of nutrients cause the imbalance in hormones leading to menstruation or bleeding. Avoid intake of nuts, seeds, avocados and olives which block the production of estrogen. Spicy foods are also known to reduce estrogen levels in the system. Eliminate foods such as broccoli, cabbage, corn, pineapple and onions that inhibit the production of estrogen. Switch to grains, dairy products, apples, cherries, flaxseed and soy foods that are estrogen rich. Ensure such dietary controls until your body settles back to normal.
Similarly, change in hormone levels cause stress and emotional distress. Post menopause women tend to be susceptible to mood swings and hot flashes. Such stressful conditions and emotional ill health can also cause hormone balance and consequently lead to bleeding.
Reduction in estrogen levels expose woman to a wide variety of disorders such as loss of bone density, increase in sugar levels, risk of cardio vascular and Alzheimer’s disease. Some basic steps to avoid post menopausal issues include: maintaining adequate dietary requirements with focus on proteins and nutrients, commit yourself to a routine of 45 minute mild to moderate exercise every day, practice any favorite hobby, sport or interest to de-stress, avoid excessive intake of refined, fatty and fried foods. Intake of calcium supplements is also mandatory after menopause to fortify the bones and reduce chances of bone disorders such as osteoporosis.
answered by M W