Definition

Abnormal vaginal bleeding is any vaginal bleeding unrelated to your period. This type of bleeding may include spotting of small amounts of blood between periods — often seen on toilet tissue after wiping — or extremely heavy periods in which you soak a pad or tampon every one to two hours for two or more hours.

Vaginal bleeding during your period (menstruation) occurs every 21 to 35 days when the uterus sheds its lining, marking the start of a new reproductive cycle.

Menstrual periods may last for just a few days or up to a week. Bleeding may may be heavy or light. Menstrual cycles tend to be longer for teens and for women nearing menopause. Menstrual flow may also be heavier at those ages.