Arrange a consultation
Talk with a doctor if bleeding or pain disrupts daily life, persists or returns. Also report bleeding between periods or after sex. Any bleeding or spotting after menopause needs medical assessment, even if it has happened only once.
When urgent help is needed
Very heavy bleeding with weakness, dizziness, near-fainting, fainting or severe pain needs urgent medical attention. Do not wait for a planned appointment or to collect notes.
If you are unsure how urgently you need help, contact a healthcare service. This page is not a tool for assessing urgency yourself.
Notes are support, not a requirement for a visit. Do not delay seeking advice to collect a complete history.
Sources and scope
International sources inform general information; UK referral rules and waiting times are not presented as rules for other countries.