Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

Abnormal uterine bleeding is any bleeding from the uterus through the vagina other than the normal monthly period.

It is also known as Dysfunctional uterine bleeding. The average menstrual cycle lasts around five days and occurs every 21 to 35 days. Abnormal uterine bleeding is always not reported with women who are experiencing any symptoms. It is recorded that 3-35% of women worldwide are diagnosed with abnormal uterine bleeding.

What are the types of abnormal uterine bleeding?

Abnormal uterine bleeding symptoms

What are the causes of abnormal uterine bleeding?

Hormonal Imbalance:

Fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone, can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle and lead to abnormal uterine bleeding.

Uterine Fibroids:

Noncancerous growths in the uterus called fibroids can cause heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, as well as irregular periods.

Endometrial Polyps:

Small growths or tumors in the lining of the uterus, known as endometrial polyps, can cause abnormal uterine bleeding, especially if they become irritated or inflamed.

Endometrial Hyperplasia:

Thickening of the uterine lining, known as endometrial hyperplasia, can result in irregular or heavy menstrual bleeding. In some cases, endometrial hyperplasia can progress to endometrial cancer.

Adenomyosis:

Adenomyosis, A condition in which the tissue that lines the uterus grows into the muscular wall of the uterus, causing heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, as well as pain.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID):

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease is an infection of the female reproductive organs, usually caused by sexually transmitted bacteria, which can lead to inflammation and abnormal uterine bleeding.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS):

PCOS is a hormonal disorder characterized by enlarged ovaries with small cysts on the outer edges. Irregular menstrual cycles, heavy bleeding, and other menstrual irregularities are common symptoms.

Miscarriage or Ectopic Pregnancy:

Bleeding during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester, can indicate a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, both of which require medical attention.

Cervical or Uterine Cancer:

In rare cases, abnormal uterine bleeding may be a sign of cervical or uterine cancer, especially if accompanied by other symptoms such as pelvic pain or abnormal vaginal discharge.

Abnormal uterine bleeding diagnosis

If your bleeding is severe, your doctor may want to examine your blood count in addition to other tests to ensure you don't have a low blood count as a result of the blood loss. This could result in anemia and iron shortage.

The uterus and the ovaries are seen on an ultrasound of your pelvic area. It could also reveal the source of your bleeding.

Anendometrial biopsy may be recommended by your doctor. This is a uterine lining examination. It's done by inserting a small plastic tube into your uterus (known as a catheter).

The doctor will ask you to go through a physical exam that includes:

Abnormal uterine bleeding treatment

Hormonal Therapy

Hormonal treatments such as birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), or progestin-releasing intrauterine devices (IUDs) may help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce abnormal bleeding.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen or prescription NSAIDs can help reduce menstrual bleeding and relieve pain associated with abnormal uterine bleeding.

Tranexamic Acid

This medication helps reduce heavy menstrual bleeding by promoting blood clotting. It is typically taken orally during menstruation.

Surgical Procedures

In cases where medical treatments are ineffective or not appropriate, surgical interventions may be recommended. These can include endometrial ablation, hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), or surgical removal of fibroids or polyps.

Dilation and Curettage (D&C)

This procedure involves scraping or suctioning the lining of the uterus to remove abnormal tissue and control bleeding. It may be used to diagnose and treat abnormal uterine bleeding.

Endometrial Ablation

This minimally invasive procedure destroys the lining of the uterus to reduce or stop menstrual bleeding.

Frequently Asked Questions