Is postmenopausal bleeding always cancer?

Question

Hello doctor,

My relative, 72, has recently experienced vaginal bleeding after many years of menopause, and doctors are taking it very seriously. I came across the concern of why is vaginal bleeding in a 72-year-old considered cancerous until proven otherwise, which sounds alarming.

Does this mean it is highly likely to be cancer, or just that doctors want to rule it out quickly?

We are trying to understand why this symptom is treated with such urgency.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com

I understand your concern.

In the first place, post menopausal vaginal bleeding must be taken seriously, and cancer must be ruled out first. This is the most important step because sometimes postmenopausal bleeding can be a sign of malignancy that needs prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Does this finding always mean cancer? No. It can also result from endometrial hyperplasia. Here, the lining of the uterus thickens more than normal. You may also be offered a D&C (dilatation and curettage) to take a sample of tissue for diagnosis. Sometimes a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be recommended depending on the results.

The key point is that in both cancerous and non-cancerous causes, a tissue sample is required to confirm the diagnosis. That is why doctors investigate this symptom with urgency to rule out serious causes first.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer.

Thank you.