Blood vaginal secretion: causes, symptoms and treatments. Get information about this frequent medical problem.

Blood flow through the vagina can be a worrying and distressing symptom for many women. It is important to understand that this condition can have several underlying causes, from normal physiological changes to more serious medical conditions. Knowing the possible causes and symptoms can help women make informed decisions and seek adequate medical care when necessary.

In some cases, blood secretion by the vagina can be normal. For example, during menstruation, the lining of the uterus follows, causing blood exit. It is a natural and expected process that occurs every month in women of reproductive age. In addition, some women may have stained or a slight blood flow during ovulation, which is usually considered normal and is not a cause for concern.

It is important to keep in mind that any vaginal flow of inexplicable or significant blood must be immediately consulted with a healthcare professional, since it could be indicative of a more serious condition.

If you experience blood flow in the vagina accompanied by intense pain, fever or other worrying symptoms, it is essential that you look for immediate medical attention. A healthcare professional may evaluate your specific situation, perform the necessary tests and provide adequate treatment or derive it if necessary. Remember that addressing any reproductive health problem is crucial to maintaining general wel l-being and tranquility.

Blood Discharge from the Vagina: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Causes:

• Hormonal imbalance: fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels can cause irregular menstrual cycles and abnormal hemorrhages.
• Infections: certain types of infections, such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), can cause vaginal hemorrhages.
• Polyps and fibroids: no n-cancerous tumors in the uterus or cervix can cause abnormal bleeding.

Note: It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the exact cause of vaginal bleeding.

Symptoms:

1. Abnormal bleeding between menstrual periods.
2. Abundant or prolonged menstrual bleeding.
3. Bleeding after having sex.

Treatment:

The effective treatment of blood secretion by the vagina depends on the underlying cause. The options may include:

1. Hormonal therapy to regulate hormonal imbalances.
2. Antibiotics or antiviral medications to treat infections.
3. Surgical removal of polyps or fibroids.

Understanding Vaginal Bleeding: What is considered normal?

Normal vaginal bleeding, also known as menstruation, occurs in women of reproductive age. It is a natural process regulated by hormones that implies the detachment of the uterine coating. Normally, the latest menstrual bleeding from 3 to 7 days and occurs every 21 to 35 days. However, variations in duration and frequency can be considered normal. The flow usually begins light, becomes more abundant in the first days and decreases towards the end.

Note: It is important to remember that normal vaginal bleeding should not cause pain or significant discomfort. If you experience intense pain, prolonged bleeding or other worrying symptoms, it is recommended to seek medical attention.

What to expect during a normal menstrual cycle:

• The first day of the cycle begins menstrual bleeding.
• The flow usually begins light and can be accompanied by minor cramps.
• In the following days, bleeding becomes more abundant.
• On the third or fourth day, the flow usually reaches its maximum and may include small clots.
• From the fifth to the seventh day, bleeding gradually decreases and is reduced.
• Menstruation usually stops completely at the end of the seventh day.

It is important that you keep a record of your menstrual cycle and any change in your bleeding patterns. This can help you identify what is normal for you and recognize any anomaly that may require attention. Do not forget to consult your doctor if you have doubts or questions about vaginal bleeding.

Common Causes of Abnormal Blood Discharge from the Vagina

A possible cause of abnormal blood secretion by the vagina are hormonal imbalances. Hormonal fluctuations can alter the normal pattern of the menstrual cycle and cause irregular bleeding. This can occur during puberty, menopause or as a result of certain medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (SOP) or thyroid disorders. In addition to abnormal bleeding, women can also experience other symptoms such as acne, weight gain or humor changes. If it is suspected that there are hormonal imbalances, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for a more exhaustive evaluation and treatment.

Common causes of abnormal blood secretion by the vagina:

1. Hormonal imbalances
2. Uterine fibroids
3. Endometrial polyps
4. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
5. Endometriosis
6. Cervical or uterus cancer

In some cases, abnormal blood flow can be attributed to uterine myomas. These no n-cancerous tumors can cause excessive bleeding during menstruation and can lead to prolonged or abundant menstruations. Uterine myomas can vary in size and number, and it is more frequent to find them in women of reproductive age. If the existence of uterine myomas is suspected, other diagnostic tests, such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance, can be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and determine the most appropriate treatment options.

It is essential that women who experience an abnormal blood secretion through the vagina go to the doctor as soon as possible. A rapid evaluation and diagnosis can help identify the underlying cause and guarantee timely and adequate treatment.

Menstruation and Blood Discharge: What to Expect During Your Period

1. Normal menstrual flow:

• The average duration of a period is usually between 4 and 7 days.
• During this time, blood flow can vary in color and consistency, from bright red to dark brown.
• It is common to experience mild to moderate cramps and discomfort in the lower abdomen.
• The amount of blood expelled can also vary, but on average it is about 30 to 40 milliliters (2 to 3 tablespoons).

Note: If you notice any sudden changes in your menstrual flow or experience severe pain, it is important to consult a healthcare professional as it may indicate an underlying illness.

2. Abnormal menstruation:

• In some cases, women may experience abnormal menstrual bleeding, which may include heavy or prolonged periods.
• Heavy bleeding is characterized by the need to change medical devices every hour for several consecutive hours.
• Prolonged menstruations last more than 7 days and may be accompanied by excessive blood clotting.

If you are concerned that your menstrual flow is abnormal, it is advisable to see your doctor to determine the underlying cause and discuss possible treatment options.

3. Control menstrual symptoms:

• For many women, menstrual symptoms can be managed with self-care measures.
• These include using over-the-counter pain relievers, applying a heating pad to the abdomen, and practicing relaxation techniques to relieve cramps.
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle by exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and eating a balanced diet can also help regulate menstrual cycles.

Unusual Bleeding: When to Seek Medical Attention

1. Heavy or prolonged bleeding: If you experience unusually heavy or prolonged bleeding, it is essential that you consult a healthcare professional. Excessive bleeding during menstruation, known as menorrhagia, can indicate hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids, polyps, or even certain reproductive system disorders. Keep track of the number of pads or tampons you use, and if you find yourself changing them more frequently than usual, it’s time to see a doctor.

Note: It is important to differentiate between intense bleeding and normal flow. Abundant bleeding is typically characterized by saturating a compress or buffer in an hour or less, and if this persists for several hours, immediate medical care is necessary.

2. Irregular bleeding: Any deviation from your regular menstrual pattern should not be ignored. Irregular bleeding may include stained between periods, hemorrhage after postmenopausal intercourse or hemorrhage. These symptoms may indicate cervical abnormalities or uterine, hormonal imbalances or even early signs of cervical or uterine cancer. Regardless of your age or reproductive history, it is essential that you report any irregular bleeding to your medical care provider for additional evaluation and proper treatment.

3. Bleeding during pregnancy: although a certain degree of stained can be considered normal at the beginning of pregnancy, any abundant bleeding during pregnancy should be treated urgently. Hemorrhages during pregnancy can indicate a possible spontaneous abortion or ectopic pregnancy, which require immediate medical attention. It is important to request a rapid evaluation and specialized attention to protect both the mother’s wel l-being and that of the baby.

Remember that early diagnosis and intervention are essential to address the underlying causes of unusual hemorrhages and treat any associated complication. If you have any concern or doubt about your bleeding patterns, it is always better to consult a health professional who can provide adequate orientation and guarantee your reproductive health in general.

Vaginal Infections and Blood Discharge: Signs and Treatment Options

Signs of vaginal infections:

• Abnormal vaginal flow: vaginal infections usually give rise to an unusual flow, which may seem thick, greenish or foamy. In some cases, the flow may contain blood.
• Strong smell: a strong and unpleasant smell from the vaginal area may indicate the presence of an infection.
• Itching and irritation: vaginal infections can cause itching, redness and irritation in the vagina and around it.
• Pain or discomfort when urinating: infections can cause pain or discomfort when urinating.

Treatment options:

1. Antibiotics: In cases where infection is caused by bacteria, such as bacterial vaginosis, the doctor can prescribe antibiotics to eliminate infection.
2. Antifungal medications: If a vaginal fungal infection is suspected, antimicotic medications may be recommended in the form of creams, suppositories or oral tablets.
3. Topical creams and ointments: These can help relieve the itching and irritation associated with vaginal infections, providing temporary relief while other treatments take effect.

It is important to note that self-diagnosis and self-medication are not recommended for vaginal infections. If you experience abnormal bloody discharge or any other concerning symptoms, it is essential that you consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

In general, knowing the signs and treatment options for vaginal infections can help women act quickly when they experience abnormal blood flow. With proper medical intervention, these infections can be treated effectively, relieving discomfort and promoting overall vaginal health.

Hormonal Imbalance and Vaginal Bleeding: How they are connected

Hormonal imbalance and its relationship with vaginal bleeding:

1. Estrogen dominance: Too much estrogen in the body can cause the uterine lining to thicken, leading to heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding. Estrogen dominance can be caused by factors such as obesity, certain medications, or underlying diseases.
2. Progesterone deficiency: Progesterone is responsible for regulating the growth of the uterine lining. When there is a deficiency of progesterone in the body, the uterine lining can become unstable, causing irregular or unpredictable bleeding.
3. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a hormonal disorder commonly associated with menstrual irregularities. Women with PCOS often have infrequent or prolonged periods, as well as heavy bleeding.
4. Thyroid dysfunction: The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in the production of hormones. An underactive or overactive thyroid gland can upset the balance of reproductive hormones and cause abnormal bleeding patterns.

It is important to keep in mind that abnormal vaginal bleeding should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Although hormonal imbalance can be a major factor, other possible causes, such as infections or underlying medical conditions, must be ruled out. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential to address the root cause and manage symptoms effectively.

Tips for Managing and Preventing Abnormal Blood Discharge

1. Keep a registration of your menstrual cycle: Maintaining a regular calendar of the menstrual cycle is essential to identify patterns and anomalies in your bleeding. Write down the start and completion dates of the period, as well as any change in color, consistency or flow volume. This information can help the health professional to diagnose the cause of abnormal bleeding.

Tip: Use a period monitoring app or mark a calendar to precisely record the details of your menstrual cycle.

2. Practice good hygiene: maintain adequate hygiene is crucial to prevent infections that can cause an abnormal blood flow. Gently clean the external genital area with soft and perfume soap and water. Avoid the use of strong vaginal cleaners or showers, since they can alter the natural balance of the pH of the vagina and cause irritations and infections.

• Use clean, breathable and cotton underwear.
• Change the compresses or tampons regularly, especially on the days of abundant flow.
• Avoid wearing tight clothes or synthetic tissues that catch moisture.

3. Visit to a health professional: if you experience an abnormal blood flow, it is essential that you consult a healthcare health professional. They can evaluate your symptoms, perform the necessary tests and offer you the appropriate treatment options. Look for immediate medical attention if you experience intense abdominal pain, fever or unusually abundant bleeding.

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Author of the article

Dr.Greenblatt M.

Medical oncologist at the Robert Larner College of Medicine, MD, at the University of Vermont