Continuous bleeding after a period can be a sign of abnormal uterine bleeding, which is bleeding between monthly periods, prolonged bleeding, or an extremely heavy period. Abnormal uterine bleeding can have many causes, including a variety of medical conditions and even stress. Here are some possible causes of continuous bleeding after a period:

• Hormone imbalances: Hormone imbalances are often to blame for abnormal uterine bleeding. They’re most common among people whose periods are just beginning or near ending.

• Changes to hormone levels: Bleeding between periods often happens when you start to take hormonal contraceptives. This is because your hormone levels drop. It is also called breakthrough bleeding and usually happens about 2 weeks after your last period. Breakthrough bleeding should stop after 1 or 2 months. Your periods will usually become more regular within 6 months.

• Structural abnormalities in your uterus: Structural abnormalities in your uterus, such as polyps or fibroids, can cause bleeding between periods.

• Inflammation or infection: Inflammation or infection of the cervix or uterus can cause bleeding between periods.

• Endometriosis: Endometriosis is when some of the cells similar to those that line the uterus (womb), called the endometrium, grow in other parts of the body. Sometimes bleeding between periods is caused by endometriosis.

• Cancer: Cancer of the uterus or cervix can cause abnormal uterine bleeding, unexpected or heavy menstrual bleeding. These cancers can happen before or after menopause. Women who have had an abnormal Pap test in the past are at higher risk of cervical cancer.

If you are experiencing continuous bleeding after your period, it is important to talk to your doctor to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.