Abnormal Bleeding Q & A

What is abnormal bleeding?

Every woman has a unique experience with menstruation, and mild to moderate shifts in monthly bleeding are usually nothing to be concerned about. Abnormal bleeding is defined as changes in your hormonal balance that adversely affect your monthly menstrual bleeding.  

It’s important to note that some women experience abnormally heavy bleeding as a regular part of their menstrual bleeding. That is to say, heavy bleeding might not be an abnormal experience as compared to your routine periods, but is out of the norm and should be evaluated. Menstrual bleeding that is extremely light can also be considered abnormal bleeding.

If your period prevents you from enjoying normal activities or comes with heavy cramping, schedule a diagnostic exam at Coeur OBGYN to find answers and explore treatment paths.

What are some common causes of abnormal bleeding?

Anything that alters your hormonal balance can lead to abnormal bleeding. Some of the more common causes include:

• Birth control or other medications
• Significant weight loss or gain over a short period of time
• Physical or emotional stress
• New IUD
• Uterine fibroids
• Certain bleeding disorders
• Cervical, endometrial, or uterine cancer
• Infections
• Endometriosis

Because there are so many things that lead to abnormal bleeding, finding the right diagnosis is critical to determining a treatment path that helps.

What are some diagnostic tools used for abnormal bleeding?

Your diagnostic exam begins with a discussion about your symptoms and a review of your health history. A pelvic exam usually follows, giving your specialist a chance to look and feel for abnormalities.

Additional screening options include:

• Blood work to check for anemia, monitor hormone levels, and look for signs of disease
• Ultrasound to gain insight into the size and shape of reproductive organs
• Biopsy to remove a small portion of cells to screen for signs of cancer
• Hysteroscopy to “see” your internal organs and tissues
• Magnetic resonance imaging to obtain 3D imaging of organs

Your specialist advises you about the diagnostic tools best suited to your specific symptoms.

How is abnormal bleeding treated?

Your treatment path depends on the cause of abnormal bleeding, your overall health, and your plans for future pregnancy. Your specialist works with you to determine the cause of bleeding and work out a course of action to improve your symptoms. You may be advised to take supplemental iron and vitamins to restore optimal levels as you move through treatment.

When you’re ready to find answers and solutions for abnormal bleeding, book a visit online or by phone.