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close this bookWhere Women Have No Doctor - A Health Guide for Women (Hesperian Foundation, 1997, 600 p.)
close this folderChapter 22: Abnormal Bleeding from the Vagina
View the document(introduction...)
Open this folder and view contentsProblems with Monthly Bleeding
Open this folder and view contentsOther Kinds of Bleeding Problems

(introduction...)

How to use this chapter:

Most of the causes of the bleeding problems in this chapter are described in other parts of this book. If you have a bleeding problem, look it up here and then turn to the numbered page listed for more information. If the problem is not covered in this book, see a health worker trained to do pelvic exams,


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It is normal for monthly bleeding to change from time to time because of illness, stress, pregnancy, breastfeeding, a long journey, overwork, or a change in diet. But if a change in monthly bleeding happens suddenly, lasts more than a few months, or if it comes with other problems, it may be a sign of a more serious problem.

¨ If monthly bleeding suddenly changes, always think about the possibility of pregnancy - even if a family planning method is being used.

Danger signs

If a woman has any of these danger signs, she may need medical help right away. Turn to the numbered page listed for more information.

· bleeding and pain in the abdomen when regular monthly bleeding has been missed
· bleeding in late pregnancy

· heavy bleeding after childbirth, miscarriage, or abortion


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