What is breakthrough bleeding?

Breakthrough bleeding is vaginal bleeding that occurs between a woman's monthly menstrual periods, particularly in women who are using hormonal birth control. 

What are the causes of breakthrough bleeding?

The causes of breakthrough bleeding can include:

• uterine fibroids
• miscarriage
• ectopic pregnancy
• underactive thyroid
• cervical or uterine cancer

In rare cases, stress can causes breakthrough bleeding.

Because there can be many causes, the best way to determine the cause is to undergo a gynaecological examination.

Can breakthrough bleeding be prevented?

Depending on the cause, breakthrough bleeding sometimes cannot be prevented. However, in some cases it can be prevented by taking the following measures:

• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a normal weight, as being overweight can cause irregular periods.
• Following the doctor's instructions to prevent hormonal imbalances (if you take oral contraceptives).

What is the treatment for breakthrough bleeding?

The treatment will depend on its cause, but usually, the following therapies are used:

• Contraceptive pills, intrauterine device (IUD), progesterone pills and analgesics before the period to avoid discomfort.
• Hormonal medications to restore ovulation or control bleeding.
• Surgery to separate most of the endometrial tissue to reduce the amount of bleeding.
• Surgery to treat any structural abnormality of the uterus or endometrium.
• Iron supplements for women who have anaemia due to excessive bleeding.

What kind of doctor treats breakthrough bleeding?

Breakthrough bleeding can be treated by an obstetrician and gynaecologist.