At SoCal ObGyn, we are pleased to offer diagnosis and treatment for abnormal bleeding.

What is Abnormal Bleeding?

A woman’s menstrual cycle should occur every 28 days, with a period of bleeding for 3-7 days on average. Abnormal bleeding, also known as abnormal uterine bleeding, is any bleeding that occurs outside of the cycle and can be an indication of an underlying medical condition.

Abnormal bleeding can be described as bleeding between your period, heavy flow (bleeding), bleeding after sex, lack of bleeding for several months, and bleeding for long periods.

By keeping track of your cycle and making notes of its length and flow, you can help your doctor determine what may be irregular or abnormal bleeding.

It is important to note that there are stages in a woman’s life where abnormal bleeding may occur such as when a girl begins menstruation or as a woman approaches menopause. Additionally, women taking hormone therapy may also experience abnormal or irregular bleeding during the first few months of treatment. These are times when the cycle can be disrupted due to changes in hormone levels.

Causes

Some of the causes of abnormal bleeding can include:

  • Bleeding disorders
  • Certain types of cancer including uterine, vaginal, and cervical
  • Endometrial hyperplasia
  • Fibroids
  • Issues with birth control
  • Miscarriage
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome
  • Polyps
  • Pregnancy
  • Problems with ovulation
  • Sexually transmitted diseases or infections

How is abnormal bleeding diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask about your medical history, list of symptoms, and the history of your menstrual cycle. As the causes can vary, it is important that we conduct a thorough examination. You may be asked to undergo a pelvic exam, ultrasound testing, blood test, biopsy, MRI, or endoscopic exam to better analyze tissue and the uterine cavity.  

 Treatment Options

As the causes of abnormal bleeding vary, so do your treatment options. Your treatment will depend on your age, diagnosis, medical history, and lifestyle needs. Treatment options can include:

  • Antibiotics for infections
  • Endometrial ablation to reduce bleeding
  • Hormonal Birth control to help regulate your cycle and address hormonal imbalance
  • Hysterectomy when conservative methods have failed or if your condition is severe
  • Medication to reduce heavy flow or bleeding
  • Uterine artery embolization to treat fibroids

If you are experiencing abnormal bleeding or irregularities in your cycle, schedule your appointment today at (714) 848-2383.