Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

What is abnormal uterine bleeding?

Abnormal uterine bleeding is any type of menstrual bleeding that varies from your normal blood flow, volume, or frequency. Examples include:

• Bleeding between monthly periods
• Bleeding too long
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Lighter-than-usual menstrual bleeding
• Bleeding after sex
• Bleeding after menopause

A normal menstrual flow usually lasts four to seven days and occurs about every 24 to 34 days.

What are the causes of abnormal menstrual bleeding?

There are numerous reasons you might experience abnormal uterine bleeding. Some possible causes and risk factors include:

• Being overweight
• Hormone imbalances
• Uterine fibroids
• Uterine polyps
• Ovarian, uterine, cervical, or vagina cancers
• Bleeding disorders
• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Birth control pills or IUDs
• Infections of the cervix or uterus

To determine the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding, Dr. Reddy completes a pelvic exam and Pap test. She may order hormone tests, additional blood tests, or a pregnancy test. Dr. Reddy might also complete a biopsy, hysteroscopy to examine the uterus, or ultrasound to look for uterine abnormalities.

What is the treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding?

After making a diagnosis, Dr. Reddy reviews treatment options with you. The most appropriate treatment depends on what’s causing irregular bleeding and may include:

Hormone therapy

Dr. Reddy may recommend you take low-dose birth control pills or undergo hormone therapy to stabilize hormone levels and achieve a normal menstrual cycle. She may insert an intrauterine device (IUD), which continuously releases hormones, into your uterus.

Medications

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications may help reduce abnormal uterine bleeding if you take the medications right before your period begins. Dr. Reddy may recommend prescription or over-the-counter medications to alleviate symptoms.

Minimally invasive surgery

If the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding is cancer, polyps, or uterine fibroids, Dr. Reddy may recommend minimally invasive surgery to correct the problem. She might suggest surgically removing cancerous or benign growths in your uterus, taking out your uterus (a hysterectomy), or endometrial ablation to reduce heavy periods.

Which treatment is right for me?

Dr. Reddy lets you know which treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding best matches your needs based in your individual situation. Treatment often restores your menstrual flow, which can drastically improve your quality of life. Call Alpha OBGYN to schedule an appointment, or use the online scheduling tool today.