Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding?
Question: I am 55 yrs old, still having monthly periods. Very regularly. I have noticed that the blood is sometimes very dark almost black. Is this normal?
Brief Answer:
This is likely normal...
Detailed Answer:
Thank you for the question.
In the setting of regular cycles, it is not so unusual to still have periods at age 55. If there was ANY irregularity to the cycle or bleeding unrelated to the cycle, then you need evaluation with an ultrasound AND endometrial biopsy to rule out pre-cancerous changes.
With regard to the appearance of the blood, this is also likely normal. With the smaller amount of bleeding, I am presuming, it makes its way out much slower and this is associated with the darker blood. It might even appear brownish towards the end of the period.
You should still be getting annual exams. Make sure that you also discuss this with your doctor and make sure that they (who know you much better including your past medical history) believe that this also sounds normal.
I hope that this helps!
Dr. Tim
This is likely normal...
Detailed Answer:
Thank you for the question.
In the setting of regular cycles, it is not so unusual to still have periods at age 55. If there was ANY irregularity to the cycle or bleeding unrelated to the cycle, then you need evaluation with an ultrasound AND endometrial biopsy to rule out pre-cancerous changes.
With regard to the appearance of the blood, this is also likely normal. With the smaller amount of bleeding, I am presuming, it makes its way out much slower and this is associated with the darker blood. It might even appear brownish towards the end of the period.
You should still be getting annual exams. Make sure that you also discuss this with your doctor and make sure that they (who know you much better including your past medical history) believe that this also sounds normal.
I hope that this helps!
Dr. Tim
Note: Revert back with your gynae reports to get a clear medical analysis by our expert Gynecologic Oncologist. Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Veerisetty Shyamkumar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
