Menstrual Cycle
Metrorrhagia (Irregular Menstrual Bleeding)
Some irregular bleeding that occurs between menstrual periods is referred to as metrorrhagia.
Of course, women want to experience a healthy period, with a normal amount of bleeding occurring at the expected time.
But this isn't always the case.
One such issue is metrorrhagia.
Metrorrhagia refers to a small amount of spotting or light bleeding that occurs again, a few days after a normally timed period has already ended.
Experiencing this can be quite stressful and distressing for women.
This type of bleeding (metrorrhagia) can be a symptom of an underlying gynecological issue.
Whether this has never happened to you before or you've experienced it a few times, having a gynecological exam is very important for early detection.
Possible Causes of Metrorrhagia
- An undetected or unrecognized pregnancy ending in miscarriage
- Conditions related to hormonal irregularities
- Stress-related conditions, or sudden changes in lifestyle
- Use of medications that can cause this type of side effect
- Use of an intrauterine device (IUD)
- After sexual activity
- Irregularities in vaginal flora, or insufficient natural secretions
- After cauterization, freezing, laser, or surgical procedures performed on the cervix
- Issues related to ovulation
- The presence of cervical or uterine cancer
- While taking a regular daily birth control pill, or using any medication that affects hormones
- Traumatic conditions affecting the vagina
- After using the morning-after pill or taking excessive birth control pills
If you believe you may be experiencing symptoms of metrorrhagia, be sure to see a gynecologist without delay.
Patients who still have their hymen — meaning they have not had sexual intercourse — should never delay treatment for this condition, as the exam can be performed without any issue concerning the hymen.