Bleeding Between Periods: When to See a Specialist

Bleeding between your periods can feel a bit scary, but most causes aren’t life-threatening. They’re also usually quite treatable. Still, a specialist’s assessment is key for protecting your overall health.

A range of factors can affect your menstrual cycle, and our experts can help in light of any changes. At Glendale OBGYN in Glendale, Arizona, Dr. Diana Heard and nurse practitioner, Nicola Maurer provide compassionate and professional gynecological care for teens and adults.

Take a few moments to learn about bleeding between periods, including common causes and smart steps to take next.

Traits of normal periods

For most people who menstruate, periods start as early as adolescence and last until menopause, between ages 40 and 58. 

Although the specifics vary, typical menstrual cycles last about 28 days, including three to seven days of bleeding as your uterus sheds its lining. You might bleed pretty heavily for one to three days and lightly spot for the rest, or the flow may stay consistent throughout. 

Mild cramping and discomfort leading up to or during your period are common and generally not cause for alarm. The same goes for moderate shifts in your moods, cognition, and energy levels.

What causes bleeding between periods

Bleeding between periods isn’t normal and can happen for a range of reasons. Also known as intermenstrual bleeding or, if it’s light, spotting, your symptoms may stem from:

• Cervical, endometrial, or uterine polyps
• Hormonal changes associated with perimenopause or pregnancy
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
• Noncancerous growths
• Using or changing hormonal contraceptives
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) 
• Pregnancy complications, such as miscarriage
• Rough or deep penetrative sex
• Thyroid disorders
• Uterine fibroids
• Sexually-transmitted infections (STIs)

Less commonly, gynecological cancers and systemic diseases, like celiac, diabetes, or kidney disease, cause between-period bleeding. 

When to see a specialist for bleeding between periods

Though bleeding mid-menstrual cycle isn’t typically a sign of a serious health problem, it warrants a medical evaluation to rule such conditions out. Prompt care can also help us address mild issues before they become severe. 

At the same time, it’s never too late to seek a professional’s support for irregular bleeding. Whether you’ve noticed it once or for several consecutive cycles, you’ll receive judgment-free care from our team.

What to expect at your exam

Your exam for between-period bleeding will involve discussion of your symptoms, including their frequency and severity. We’ll also discuss your overall health and family medical history. 

From there, we may recommend a pelvic exam and tests, such as blood work to check your hormone levels or a urinalysis to check for an infection or pregnancy. Based on your assessment and diagnosis, we’ll recommend appropriate treatment.

To get started with the care you need, call Glendale OBGYN, or book an appointment using our convenient online scheduler.