Signs and screenings you should never ignore

The official definition of menopause is when 12 consecutive months have gone by without having a period.¹ If you are in menopause and have started noticing vaginal bleeding, don’t ignore it. Make an appointment to see your doctor.²

What to do if you experience postmenopausal bleeding

Research shows that postmenopausal bleeding is common in 5% of women.² In most cases, it’s linked to vaginal atrophy (thinning of the vaginal walls due to menopause) but can also indicate something more serious.² Make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as possible.² Your doctor will review your medical history and may recommend some of the following tests and screenings to make an accurate diagnosis and recommend treatment.

• Transvaginal ultrasound scan^2,6

A smooth device that’s inserted into the vagina to take pictures of the uterus. This scan can assist in diagnosing endometrial cancer.

• Endometrial biopsy^{2, 6}

An outpatient procedure where a sample of the womb lining is taken and sent to a laboratory for further examination.

• Hysteroscopy with biopsy^{2, 6}

A thin camera tube is inserted into the vagina to take detailed images of the uterus. Sometimes general anaesthesia is recommended for this procedure.

Annual check-ups and screenings

Your annual gynaecological check-up is among the most important ways to receive preventive health screenings and education. The benefits of a yearly visit extend well beyond a Pap smear and could include colonoscopy, mammograms, and triglyceride screenings. Your doctor may also recommend thyroid testing and breast and pelvic exams.¹ The old adage, prevention is better than the cure, has never been more relevant to your ongoing health and well-being.