Abnormal Menstrual Bleeding
Abnormal Uterine Bleeding refers to either excessive menstrual bleeding (also called menorrhagia), or bleeding/spotting that occurs between periods or after menopause. It also includes a condition know as dysfunctional uterine bleeding, which is menstrual bleeding that occurs more often than every 21 days or farther apart than 35 days. Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding (DUB) may also result in periods that last longer than seven days.
Causes
Abnormal Uterine Bleeding can occur as a result of many different types of conditions:
- Hormonal imbalances
- Fibroids or polyps
- Endometriosis
- An infection
- Ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage
- Uterine disease
- The use of certain medications
It’s important to see your physician to evaluate the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding, particularly for menopausal and postmenopausal women.
Treatment Options
To determine the cause of the problem, your physician will perform a thorough pelvic examination, discuss your symptoms and medical history, and in most cases order a Pap Test. In addition, your physician may also recommend other diagnostic tests such as blood work, pelvic ultrasound or laparoscopy to help further clarify or diagnose the cause of the problem.
When it comes to treating menstrual irregularities, there are many options depending on the cause of the problem. In the case of excessive bleeding (menorrhagia) or dysfunctional uterine bleeding (DUB), treatment options may include: hormonal therapy, dilation and curettage (D&C), hysteroscopic procedures to remove polyps, and endometrial ablation or resection. In the case of bleeding or spotting between periods, treatment varies and may include hormonal therapy and treatments to resolve infection or inflammation.
Expert Care
At Hoag, our multidisciplinary team of board-certified gynecologic health experts includes gynecologists, urogynecologists, reproductive endocrinologists and other subspecialists who work together to provide a coordinated approach in the treatment of menstrual irregularities, including the latest progressive treatment options personalized to meet the needs of the individual patient.
If surgery is necessary, Hoag’s expert team is well versed in the full gamut of minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques, including robotic-assisted surgery utilizing the state-of-the-art da Vinci® Surgical System.
For more information about the diagnosis and treatment of menstrual problems, please speak with your physician, or locate a Hoag-affiliated physician near you.