In many cases of postmenopausal hormonal imbalance there is an intermittent vaginal discharge that contains blood.
The presence of red blood cells or serum components can introduce additional hormone metabolites and enzymes that may interfere with assay detection, particularly for steroid and conjugated hormone measurements.
We recognize that in some postmenopausal patients, light or intermittent vaginal discharge with trace blood may be unavoidable.
If the urine appears only slightly discolored (light pink or faintly tinged) and not visibly red or opaque, the sample can typically still be processed.
However, if the specimen appears visibly bloody or dark red, we recommend postponing collection until the discharge resolves to ensure the most accurate and reliable results.