Menastration

I began my period on December 31st and it lasted approx 6 days. Since that time would get a slight bit of spotting when i wiped. Yesterday (January 14th) I started a full period again. The flow was heavy enough to require a tampon. What does this mean?

thanks

[Machelle Seibel, MD]

Slight changes in bleeding such as you have described can be due to many things. You didn't mention your age or medications but around the menopause, the type of bleeding you are experiencing is very common and is due to the changing levels of hormones being produced by your ovaries. See how things go over the next month or two. If bleeding that is abnormal for you returns, talk with your doctor. He/she may want to order a blood test for FSH and estrogen to see how close you are to menopause. An exam can also find a polyp or other problem that can cause bleeding. They might also want to sample the uterine lining with an endometrial biopsy to better understand the problem. Finally, sometimes an ultrasound of the pelvis can find a cyst or other problem. The main thing is, it is unlikely to be a bad problem. But if it continues, see your doctor to find out what is causing the problem and get it taken care of.
Machelle M. Seibel, MD