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Can perimenopause cause rectal bleeding?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am perimenopausal. With my periods, I experience some bleeding from the back passage. I have had various scans and an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) done since this started, but nothing was found. I am not sure what is causing this. I also have vaginal atrophy, and it occasionally happens as well. I do have hemorrhoids, so I am unsure if they are the cause. I had a sigmoidoscopy done a few months ago and a colonoscopy three years ago.

Please help.

Answered by Dr. Georges Hany Kozah

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Since you have had multiple scans, an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), a sigmoidoscopy, and a colonoscopy without any significant findings, it is reassuring that nothing serious has been detected. Given your history of hemorrhoids and vaginal atrophy, there are a few possible reasons for bleeding from the back passage during your periods. Hormonal changes during your cycle can increase blood flow to pelvic veins, making hemorrhoids more likely to bleed.

Straining or constipation can further worsen this. Additionally, perimenopause causes estrogen fluctuations, which can lead to increased fragility in blood vessels and tissues, including those in the rectal area. Vaginal atrophy, which leads to thinning and dryness of vaginal tissues, may also irritate the surrounding rectal area, making it more prone to minor bleeding. Although your previous tests have not indicated endometriosis, some women with deep infiltrating endometriosis experience rectal bleeding during their periods due to endometrial tissue affecting the bowel.

If the bleeding worsens or occurs outside your period, further evaluation may be needed. Managing hemorrhoids with fiber supplements, hydration, sitz baths, or medicated creams may help reduce symptoms. Vaginal estrogen therapy, if not contraindicated, could improve vaginal atrophy and reduce irritation around the area. If symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a gastroenterologist or gynecologist for further assessment would be advisable. If the bleeding remains light and occurs only during your period, it is likely related to hemorrhoids or hormonal changes, but monitoring any new symptoms is essential.

I hope this helps.

Let me know if you need further guidance.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At April 7, 2025
Reviewed At April 15, 2025

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Perimenopause Rectal Bleeding Awareness Builder

Perimenopause rectal bleeding?

Five quick questions help you understand potential causes of rectal bleeding during perimenopause and when it's advisable to consult a doctor.

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Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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