Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (Menometrorrhagia): Causes

Every woman suffers from abnormal uterine bleeding at some point in her life. It can cause both emotional and physical stress. Though abnormal uterine is common, its management can be complex. Before going to know how to manage abnormal uterine bleeding, every woman should know the reason behind it.

Abnormal uterine bleeding is any bleeding from the uterus through vagina other than the normal monthly period. Extremely heavy bleeding during the periods can also be considered as the abnormal uterine bleeding. It is also known as “Dysfunctional uterine bleeding”.

What Causes Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

Abnormal uterine bleeding can be caused by many reasons. Some of the main reasons which could cause abnormal uterine bleeding include:

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

PCOS is the common hormonal disorder that causes enlargement of ovaries and formation of cysts on the edges. Women with PCOS have irregular bleeding and experience fertility issues. It can cause acne, excessive hair growth on the face and body and even weight gain in the women who suffer from PCOS. The lack of ovulation in women with PCOS can cause abnormal uterine bleeding.

Hormonal Imbalance

Hormonal imbalances due to other medical conditions such as hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can cause abnormal uterine bleeding. When the body produces excess or too little of thyroid, the menstrual cycle can be disturbed. Even low level of progesterone in the body cannot induce ovulation which disrupts the regularity of menstrual cycles and causes abnormal uterine bleeding.

Problems in Pregnancy

If women who are pregnant and experiencing any type of spotting is considered to have abnormal uterine bleeding and they should be evaluated by their obstetrician immediately. An abnormal uterine bleeding during pregnancy can indicate an ectopic pregnancy or a miscarriage.

Side effects of Medications

Use of oral contraceptive pills can make changes in the regular menstrual cycles. They can alter the normal flow during the periods and cause bleeding in between the cycles which are considered as the abnormal uterine bleeding.

Side effect of IUD

Abnormal uterine bleeding is mostly seen in women with an intrauterine device. It often causes the heavier flow during the periods, especially during the first three months after insertion.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

Pelvic inflammatory disease is an infection that affects womb and/or uterus. Abnormal uterine bleeding is one of the main symptoms seen in women with pelvic inflammatory disease. PID can cause heavier flow during periods than usual or bleeding between periods or bleeding after an intercourse.

Fibroids, Abnormal growths, Polyps

The presence of abnormal uterine growths such as fibroids and polyps near the uterine lining can interfere with the blood flow to the lining. These can cause heavy periods, prolonged periods or spotting between the menses which are considered as the abnormal uterine bleeding.

Abnormal uterine bleeding is a health condition which shouldn't be handled alone. It needs immediate and proper treatment to avoid further complications. A woman with abnormal uterine bleeding should consult a gynecologist right away and share the symptoms that she experiences in detail. This helps to point out the main cause behind the condition which lets the doctor offer the best suitable treatment.

Symptoms of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

These symptoms can vary based on the underlying cause of abnormal uterine bleeding and should be discussed with a gynecologist for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions