Bleeding

[Carnation76]

Hi all, I’m new to this site. Stumbled across it while making the fatal error of googling my symptoms. Ask Eve seems a genuine source of information so I feel comfortable asking for advice here. I am 43 and since Monday 24th June I have been experiencing bleeding. Monday was cycle day 17 so not my period. Reluctant to think it is ovulation bleeding as I’ve never had this and 4 days later, I am still bleeding. It’s a mix of red and pink blood, often mixed in with mucus. It’s not heavy, I can get away with wearing a liner. I can’t say I have any other symptoms, it’s just this bleeding! I’ve also noticed small red/pink specks of whatever it might be in the bottom of the toilet bowl after I’ve had a wee. Cervical smears have always been normal, last one was March 2018. I had my little boy 19 months ago and I had bacterial vaginosis when I was pregnant and I recall passing these little flecks then. The blood then wasn’t as heavy as it is now (although I can’t say it’s heavy now, a liner is enough). Naturally I am scared witless. I look at my little boy and get upset, thinking I’m going to be diagnosed with cancer. Fair to say I am terrified. Has anyone else experienced this bleeding, mixed in with mucus? Much love to you all and thank you in advance for any replies xx

[susan5118]

Hi - I am 54 but when I was about your age I had this same issue. My doctor determined the cause was large benign polyps which are very common. I had a D&C which alleviated the issue and I did well without any spotting or heavy periods.

Fast forward to now and I think my polyps have grown back. I had an ultrasound and a biopsy. The biopsy showed benign "polypoid" tissue. The ultrasound showed a slight buildup in the endometrium consistent with perimenopause. My doctor wants to do another D&C which I will schedule.

A few years ago, she recommended a Mirena IUD/coil. I should have listened to her but chickened out because I hear it really hurts to have them inserted. The Mirena has progesterone and probably would have prevented the polyps from growing. I am wondering if I am too old to get one but I don't think I am in menopause yet because I keep getting my period (i.e. every 45 days).

Try not to worry. The ultrasound is probably the next step then they can go from there. Maybe the BC pill which might also help.

Good luck!

[Music19]

Dear Carnation76

Firstly well done for taking the initial steps to ask about the symptoms you're experiencing.

If you feel able to speak to your GP, it might be helpful to have a referral to gynaecology which will enable some further examination - ultrasound / hysteroscopy which might provide more detail of what is causing the bleeding.

All best wishes.