VAGINAL BLEEDING, ABNORMAL

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR VAGINAL BLEEDING

Call 911 Now (you may need an ambulance) If

Passed out
Very weak (can't stand)

Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If

You feel weak or very sick
Severe abdominal pain
Constant abdominal pain for more than 2 hours
Pregnant or could be pregnant (e.g. missed last period)
Soaking 2 pads or tampons per hour for 2 or more hours
Soaking 1 pad or tampon per hour for 6 or more hours
Passed tissue (e.g. gray-white)
Pale skin (pallor) of new onset or worsening

Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9 am and 4 pm) If:

You think you need to be seen
Spotting after a procedure (e.g. biopsy) or pelvic examination (e.g. pap smear) that persists for more than 3 days

Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If

You have other questions or concerns
Menstrual bleeding lasts longer than 7 days
Menstrual cycle is shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days
Menstrual bleeding with 6 or more soaked pads or tampons per day
Missed menstrual period has occurred 2 or more times in the last year and the cause is not known
Bleeding or spotting occurs between regular periods
Using Depo-Provera injections
Have Norplant implant

Self Care at Home If

Normal menstrual period
Mild vaginal bleeding and you don't think you need to be seen

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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