VAGINAL BLEEDING, ABNORMAL

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

HOME CARE ADVICE FOR MILD VAGINAL BLEEDING

Pregnancy Test When In Doubt!
- If there is any doubt about the possibility of pregnancy, then
- Obtain and use a urine pregnancy test from the store
Spotting Between Periods and Birth Control Pills: Breakthrough bleeding or spotting is common with most current birth control pills, especially during the first 3 pill pack cycles.
Spotting Between Periods and You Forgot to take a Birth Control Pill: Missing a pill may cause breakthrough bleeding or spotting. If you forget just 1 pill, continue to take your birth control pills. If you ever forget to take more than 1 pill during a month, then you should use a "back-up" contraceptive method (e.g. condom) until you start the next pill pack.
Spotting after a Procedure or Pelvic Exam: The cervix bleeds easily and even an internal exam, Pap smear, or biopsy of the cervix can cause some spotting. This spotting should subside within 24-72 hours.
Irregular bleeding and You are Using Norplant or Depoprovera: Irregular bleeding is a common side effect. It may include heavier, lighter, more frequent or less frequent bleeding than your normal periods.
Iron and Anemia: Heavy periods are the most common cause of iron deficiency anemia in women of childbearing age. Women with heavy periods should eat a diet rich in iron or take a daily multivitamin pill with iron.
Call Your Doctor If:
- Pregnancy test is positive
- You have difficulties with the home pregnancy test
- Bleeding becomes worse
- You become worse or develop any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2004

See Other Topics:

Menstrual Period, Missed or Late

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