Understanding Vaginal Bleeding Problems course for GPs

This session reviews the normal menstrual cycle as the basis for understanding and identifying vaginal bleeding problems.

This session was reviewed by Khyati Bakhai and last updated in November 2021.

Learning objectives

By the end of this session you will be able to:

• describe the physiology and bleeding patterns of the normal menstrual cycle
• list the key features that must be drawn from a history of vaginal bleeding
• identify bleeding that may signify pathology
• explain how contraceptive methods and other hormonal treatments may affect vaginal bleeding

Cyclical vaginal bleeding is a universal experience in women and defines the reproductive phase of life. It begins at menarche and generally continues until menopause, only being interrupted naturally by pregnancy.