Get to the Bottom of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Today!
Abnormal uterine bleeding is defined as bleeding that occurs outside of the normal menstrual cycle. It can happen between periods, during periods, or after sexual intercourse. It can also be accompanied by other symptoms, such as pain or itching. This can include bleeding that occurs between periods, bleeding that is heavier or lasts longer than a normal period, or bleeding that occurs after menopause.
Abnormal uterine bleeding can be a sign of a serious underlying medical condition, so it is important to see a doctor if you are experiencing any abnormal bleeding. There are a number of potential causes of abnormal uterine bleeding, and your doctor will likely order some tests to help determine the cause of your bleeding.
Menometrorrhagia is when a woman has bleeding that is heavy and lasts for more than 7 days. The bleeding may also be accompanied by large clots. Menometrorrhagia can be caused by several things, including:
- Hormonal problems
- Uterine problems
- Pregnancy
- Cancer
- Medications
- Infection
Don’t Ignore Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: The Diagnose, Causes, Signs, and Symptoms
Diagnosis
The first step in diagnosing AUB is to determine if the bleeding is normal or abnormal. Normal menstrual cycles last about 28 days, and they begin around day 1 of your period. When you experience heavy bleeding, you should contact your physician right away. He/she will also ask questions regarding your medical history, including whether you have had any recent surgeries or injuries. You may also be asked to provide a urine sample.
If you’re experiencing abnormal uterine bleeding, there are a few things you can do to determine the cause and treat it. First, ask your doctor if there’s anything you can do to prevent the bleeding. Second, check for any abnormalities in your reproductive organs. Third, determine if the bleeding is due to a pregnancy, and if so, determine the stage of the pregnancy.
Causes
It is possible to experience abnormal uterine bleeding for several reasons. Pregnancy is one of the most common causes. It is also possible for polyps or fibroids (small and large growths) to cause bleeding in the uterus. It is rare for abnormal uterine bleeding to be caused by thyroid problems, cervix infections, or uterine cancer.
Women with abnormal uterine bleeding are most likely to have a hormone imbalance. DUB is a medical term used to describe dysfunctional uterine bleeding caused by hormones. Teenagers or women approaching menopause are more likely to experience abnormal bleeding caused by hormone imbalance.
Other causes of AUB include:
- Endometrial carcinoma
- Ovarian cysts
- Fibroid tumors
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Vaginal infection
- Vaginal trauma
- Anemia
- Polyps
- Unexplained
- Systemic conditions
- Drug use
Signs and Symptoms
A common symptom of abnormal uterine bleeding is vaginal bleeding between periods. During your period, you can also experience abnormal uterine bleeding if you have extremely heavy bleeding. The term menorrhagia refers to bleeding that is very heavy or that lasts for more than 7 days during a period. Every hour, women may bleed enough to soak through 1 or more tampons or sanitary pads.
You should know what to look out for if you experience any of the following conditions. The following signs indicate unusual uterine bleeding:
- Periods of heavy bleeding (menorrhagia)
- Menopause, bleeding between periods or bleeding after sex
- A long period (more than seven days)
- Irregular periods
Treatment
If you have been experiencing abnormal uterine bleeding, your doctor may recommend certain tests to rule out other causes of bleeding. These tests may include:
- Endometrial biopsy – An endometrial biopsy involves taking a small piece of tissue from inside the uterus. You can perform this test to look for cancerous cells.
- Hysteroscopy – A hysteroscopy uses a thin tube with a camera attached to view the lining of the uterus. This test may be done to evaluate the size and shape of the uterus.
- Dilation & curettage (D&C) – A D&C is a procedure where the doctor removes tissue from the uterus using a tool called a curette. This test is often recommended after a miscarriage or abortion.
- Laparoscopy – A laparoscopy is a surgical procedure where the doctor looks at the organs in the abdominal cavity. This test may be performed to diagnose conditions such as ovarian cysts, fibroids, or endometriosis.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – An MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create images of internal structures. This test may be used to detect tumors, blood clots, and other abnormalities.
- Ultrasound – An ultrasound uses sound waves to produce pictures of internal organs. This test may be conducted to assess the size and position of the fetus.
- X-ray – An X-ray uses radiation to create images of bones, teeth, and soft tissues. This test may be useful to identify fractures, bone infections, and other problems.
- Vaginal ultrasound – A vaginal ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the vagina. This test may be helpful to assess the size and location of the cervix.
- Blood tests – You can do Blood tests to measure levels of hormones, iron, vitamin B12, folic acid, thyroid function, and other substances.
- Other tests – Your symptoms and condition may require other tests.
AUB: how common is it?
A woman who experiences abnormal uterine bleeding may not report her symptoms to her physician. A significant percentage of women worldwide may experience AUB as a result. The numbers may be higher, however. It is most common during menarche (when menstruation begins) and perimenopause (when menopause is approaching).
Abnormal uterine bleeding often initiates hormonal imbalances. During the beginning or near the end of a period, people are most likely to experience them.
Is there a way to reduce the risk of AUB?
There are many causes of abnormal uterine bleeding that you cannot prevent. However, you can reduce your risk of abnormal bleeding if you are aware of certain conditions. Maintaining a healthy weight, for example, may help balance your hormones. You can reduce the risk of some cancers by avoiding diets containing a high amount of animal fat. By practicing safer sex, you can reduce the risk of certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that may cause abnormal uterine bleeding.
Can this condition affect my life in any way?
Depending on the cause of your bleeding, you’ll have different options for diagnosis and treatment. Several factors influence your provider’s diagnosis, including your age, symptoms, and risk factors for certain conditions that cause abnormal bleeding. Depending on the results of your physical exam and your medical history, your provider may be able to prescribe treatment and diagnostic options.
The bottom line,
If you notice any abnormal uterine bleeding, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. AUB happens by several factors, and it is important to not ignore it to avoid further damage to the uterus.
Don’t ignore abnormal uterine bleeding. It’s one of the most common gynecological emergencies and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. If you are experiencing abnormal uterine bleeding, see a doctor as soon as possible.
It’s best if you judge what’s normal for you based on how long your periods usually last and how heavy your bleeding usually is. Speak with your provider if your periods are heavy or long, or if you are bleeding outside of your menstrual cycle. Do not let suffering or embarrassment keep you silent. Stay healthy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What Causes Abnormal Uterine Bleeding?
Ans. Various factors can cause abnormal bleeding from the uterus, such as hormonal imbalances, polyps, fibroids, or certain medications.
Q2. What is the Cause of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding?
Ans. Abnormal bleeding from the uterus may be caused by hormonal fluctuations, structural problems such as fibroids or polyps, or an underlying medical condition.
Q3. What Happens if My Endometrial Biopsy is Abnormal?
Ans. If your endometrial biopsy results are abnormal, further testing may be needed to determine the underlying cause, which can range from hormonal imbalances to more serious conditions such as cancer.
Q4. What are the Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Symptoms?
Ans. Symptoms of abnormal uterine bleeding include heavy or prolonged periods, bleeding between periods, and unpredictable menstrual cycles.
Q5. What is Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding?
Ans. Dysfunctional uterine bleeding refers to abnormal bleeding patterns that are often caused by hormonal imbalances or problems with the reproductive system and require medical attention.
