bleeding after years of menopause

[mckm]

I am  a fairly healthy 54 year old woman who has not had a period in years. I started some bleeding two days ago. It is minor so far, with some slight PMS symptoms. I had a pap smear a few months ago and it was fine. I used to have regular periods. I had my tubes tied at the same time I had a c-section at age 38.

Should I be concerned?

[old_before_my_time]

They do say that all cases of post-menopausal bleeding should be investigated. However, I have read that it is actually much more common than most people realize and is usually nothing serious. Typically, it can be chalked up to sporadic ovarian activity or something benign (non-cancerous) like fibroids or benign ovarian cysts (which typically cause hormonal changes).

I have connected with many women who have had post-meno bleeding that did not need any treatment. Unfortunately, too many women end up with hysterectomies that are unnecessary and leave them in worse health than before. Even ACOG says way too many hysterectomies are being done with 76% not meeting their criteria.

I had a hysterectomy 8 years ago and it is the surgery that keeps on giving (problem after problem). The uterus and ovaries work together and have lifelong non-reproductive functions. Every woman needs to understand her condition as well as the lifelong functions of her sex organs before consenting to hysterectomy or oophorectomy for benign conditions. If benign fibroids and cysts need to be removed, there are organ-sparing procedures that remove just the growths (myomectomy or cystectomy). But you need a surgeon with these skills.

[LBShrek]

I'm going through the same thing, and you need an internal sonogram. Any postmenopausal meeting is never normal. I was diagnosed with fibroids, they are looking at possible hysterectomy...still waiting to see the specialist and unsure exactly what they have seen inside. I have been in full menopause with no periods for more than four years.

[SassyLassie]

When abnormal bleeding is noticed, I would suggest you see a gyn,  pap smears are not always 100% correct. You could also be experiencing perimenopause symptoms, a woman's' period can really act strange during that time.

[tschock]

Not to alarm you, but my grandmother hadn't had a period in years...she suddenly asked my mom for a pad one day...she had uterine cancer.

Please go and get checked out! I don't care what your pap smear said...they aren't always right...as was with my grandmother's case.
I'm not saying that's what's wrong with you,I just want you to make sure it isn't.