What is abnormal bleeding?
Abnormal bleeding includes any uterine bleeding outside your normal menstrual cycle. Typically, a woman’s menstrual cycle is 24-38 days long with up to eight days of bleeding.
Signs of abnormal bleeding include:
- Bleeding or spotting in between periods
- Bleeding or spotting after sex
- Heavy bleeding during your period
- Period that lasts longer than eight days
- Menstrual cycle longer than 38 days or shorter than 24 days
- Irregular periods
- Bleeding after menopause
You can develop abnormal bleeding at any age. It’s not uncommon for women to experience abnormalities in their menstrual cycle during adolescence and perimenopause.
What causes abnormal bleeding?
There are many gynecological conditions that may cause abnormal bleeding. Some of the most common include:
- Fibroids
- Ovarian cysts
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Endometriosis
- Miscarriage
- Ectopic pregnancy
- STDs
- Side effect from birth control
- Gynecological cancer
Some of these conditions aren’t serious health issues and are generally easy to treat. However, some of the causes of abnormal bleeding are serious and may affect your long-term health.
Scheduling an appointment at Gwinnett's Progressive Healthcare for Women can help you get the answers and treatment you need.
What happens during an abnormal bleeding consultation?
When you visit Gwinnett's Progressive Healthcare for Women for an abnormal bleeding consultation you can expect a thorough and patient-focused exam.
During your consultation, your provider asks detailed questions about your menstrual cycle and any abnormal bleeding. They also review your gynecological, medical, and surgical history, as well as the types of medications and supplements you take.
Your provider performs a physical and pelvic exam, and may request diagnostic testing like urinalysis, a blood test, ultrasound, or biopsy to confirm or rule out a suspected diagnosis.
How is abnormal bleeding treated?
Gwinnett's Progressive Healthcare for Women develops a personalized treatment plan for your abnormal bleeding based on the underlying cause, the severity of your symptoms, and your overall health.
Treatment may include:
- Hormonal birth control to regulate your menstrual cycle
- Tranexamic acid to treat heavy menstrual bleeding
- Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist for fibroids
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce discomfort
- Antibiotics to treat an infection
For an ectopic pregnancy or endometriosis, Gwinnett's Progressive Healthcare for Women may recommend minimally invasive surgery to treat the root cause of your abnormal bleeding.
To schedule a consultation with the experienced physicians at Gwinnett's Progressive Healthcare for Women, call the office or book online today.
