Bleeding in Kids

According to Dr. Anita Soni, Gynaecologist, Hiranandani Hospital, newborn girls may experience some vaginal bleeding in the earlier stages.

However, this is a normal process and does not pose any threat. It happens due to the change in environment from the mother's womb.

"The Indian average for the onset of menstruation for girls is in between 10 and 13 years of age," says Dr. Satish N. Tibrewala, Gynaecologist, Lady Ratan Tata Medical & Research Centre.

Hence, any vaginal bleeding that occurs before this time period is considered abnormal.

Abnormal bleeding in a girl less than 11 years of age could be because;

a. She has suffered from physical trauma. For example, she could have been sexually abused.

b. She may have inserted some object into her vagina as she is inquisitive about her body. and sexuality.

c. She is experiencing precautious puberty; i.e.: when a girl gets her period earlier than usual. In this case, she could start menstruating as early as the age of eight!

d. She has a fungal infection.