Final answer:
The most common causes of postmenopausal vaginal bleeding include endometrial atrophy, endometrial hyperplasia, uterine polyps, uterine or endometrial cancer, and can also be related to hormone therapy, infections, or trauma.
Step-by-step explanation:
List of Most Common Causes of Postmenopausal Vaginal Bleeding:
Postmenopausal vaginal bleeding can be a concern for women who have stopped having menstrual cycles. Common causes of this type of bleeding include:
- Endometrial atrophy: Thinning of the tissues lining the uterus, which is often related to lower estrogen levels after menopause.
- Endometrial hyperplasia: Thickening of the uterine lining caused by an imbalance of hormones, specifically an excess of estrogen without progesterone. This can sometimes lead to cancer.
- Uterine polyps: Noncancerous growths in the lining of the uterus can cause bleeding.
- Uterine cancer or endometrial cancer: Postmenopausal bleeding is a common symptom of these types of cancers and should be evaluated immediately.
- Other causes can include hormone therapy, infection of the uterine lining, and trauma to the pelvic area.
It is important for any woman experiencing postmenopausal bleeding to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.