Women experience vaginal or uterine bleeding throughout their lives.  But how can you tell if vaginal bleeding is normal or not?  We'll explore the signs and symptoms of normal vaginal bleeding and compare them to symptoms of abnormal bleeding so that you can be informed about potential problems and know when to take action.

What is normal vaginal bleeding?
Normal vaginal bleeding is part of the menstrual cycle. Menstruation occurs for a healthy woman every 21 to 35 days.  During menses, the uterus sheds its protective lining, marking the start of a new reproductive cycle.  The menstrual blood is partly blood and partly tissue from inside the uterus, or womb. The blood passes out of the body through the vagina and is totally normal. Your menstrual period may last for a few days or several days and be heavy or light, but it is still considered normal.

What is abnormal vaginal bleeding?