abnormal bleeding one week after period

[windowsofwater]

Hi, I am a 20 year old female. I am a virgin, have never been on birth control. I have normal weight, about 120 pounds, 5ft4in tall. My periods are usually about six days, with about three weeks in between bleeding. My last period lasted five days. Strangley, about a week later, it was like I had a light period! It lasted for six days, the first day was the heaviest, but not as heavy as my normal periods, I think I changed my pad once, the next two days were lighter, I only had to wear one pad each day, the next three days were just light spots. I have never had this happen, I am not on any medications of any kind, not taking any pillls, nothing unusual. I don't think I was under any perticular stress. The only thing differnt is that I was on vacation, in vienna austria when it occured. What could have caused this? This happened three weeks ago, I am now on the first day of my next period which seems to be normal. What could have caused that abnormal period? I have not seen a doctor yet. Please help? Thank you!

[Bridget A. Hewitt, RN]

It is possible to have cervical cancer without having HPV.  HPV increases your risk of cervical cancer.  An abnormal period is not uncommon, but if you are really worried about this, there is no harm in seeing your OB/GYN.  They could do an internal exam and pap and let you know if something is going on.  Hope this helps.

Bridget

[windowsofwater]

Hi, you don't think this could be a cancer symptom?

And does a woman have to have HPV to get cervical cancer? Or can she get it without ever having HPV?

Thank you for posting an answer!

[Bridget A. Hewitt, RN]

Hi and thanks for using the forum.

It is not unusual to have an abnormal period from time to time.  The change in your period could have been from travelling (sometimes a time change can mess your body up).  Since you are not sexually active I would not worry about this too much.  If your period continues on as normal, then you probably don't have to worry about going to the doctor.  If your periods continue to be irregular, then you might want to make an appointment with your OB/GYN to make sure that everything is OK.  Hope this helps.  Good luck.

Bridget