What is abnormal bleeding?

Abnormal bleeding refers to any type of uterine bleeding that falls outside the normal menstrual cycle. Your menstrual cycle is from 21-35 days with a menstrual period that lasts up to seven days.

If your menstrual cycle is longer than 35 days or shorter than 21 days, then you may have abnormal bleeding. A period that lasts longer than seven days is also abnormal. Not having a period for 3-6 months is also a concern.

Heavy menstrual bleeding, bleeding in between periods, and bleeding after sex are also symptoms of abnormal bleeding.

What causes abnormal bleeding?

Many conditions may cause abnormal bleeding. Some common gynecological issues that cause this symptom include:

• Endometriosis
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Fibroids
• Uterine polyps
• Adenomyosis: Endometrium grows into the wall of the uterus
• Hormonal birth control
• Gynecological cancer
• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
• Vaginitis
• Perimenopause or menopause

Some women have abnormal bleeding from a condition not related to their reproductive organs, such as a bleeding disorder, thyroid condition, or use of certain medications. 

In some cases, the underlying cause of the abnormal bleeding remains unknown.

What happens during an evaluation for abnormal bleeding?

Your OB/GYN at Bay Area Physicians for Women conducts a thorough history and physical when you come in for an abnormal bleeding evaluation. They review your medical and gynecological history, family history, and symptoms.

Your provider performs a physical and pelvic exam and may run tests such as bloodwork, a urinalysis, or ultrasound imaging to confirm or rule out the cause of your abnormal bleeding.

They may also perform a hysteroscopy. During this in-office procedure, your OB/GYN inserts a thin, flexible tube with a light and magnified camera into your uterus to look for abnormalities. 

What are my treatment options for abnormal bleeding?

Bay Area Physicians for Women takes a patient-first approach to care and customizes your treatment plan for abnormal bleeding based on the underlying cause and your health needs.

Initially, your OB/GYN starts with medical interventions, which might include: 

• Hormonal birth control
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist
• Tranexamic acid
• Antibiotics to treat an infection

If medical interventions fail to improve your abnormal bleeding, your provider at Bay Area Physicians for Women may recommend surgical interventions such as endometrial ablation, myomectomy (removal of fibroid), or a hysterectomy.

If you’re experiencing abnormal bleeding, find out why by calling Bay Area Physicians for Women or scheduling an appointment online today.