Abnormal Bleeding

For most people, menstruation results in regular, moderate bleeding every month during their fertile years, but a significant number of women have problems with their periods. Visit Urgyn’s skilled OB/GYNs if you experience heavy, irregular bleeding or other menstrual abnormalities. At their offices in Atlanta, Georgia, they provide expert abnormal bleeding evaluations and treatment. Call Urgyn or request a consultation using the online booking feature today.

What is abnormal bleeding?

Abnormal bleeding describes menstrual problems affecting blood flow and frequency. A typical menstrual cycle lasts 24-38 days with 4-8 days of bleeding. Abnormal bleeding issues include:

• Menstrual cycles under 24 or over 38 days
• Bleeding for more than eight days
• Heavy bleeding
• Bleeding in between periods
• Post-menopausal bleeding

Many women experience occasional menstrual bleeding problems, but if abnormal bleeding affects you frequently, contact Urgyn to schedule an evaluation.

What might cause abnormal bleeding?

Abnormal bleeding can occur for various gynecological reasons, including:

• Endometriosis
• Uterine fibroids
• Uterine polyps
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Hormonal birth control side effects
• Ectopic (outside the uterus) pregnancy
• Gynecological cancer
• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)

Sometimes, abnormal bleeding’s cause is unclear. Even if there’s no apparent underlying cause, heavy periods and other bleeding abnormalities can affect your quality of life and cause additional health problems like anemia.

How does my OB/GYN diagnose abnormal bleeding?

To determine the reason for abnormal bleeding, the Urgyn team performs a thorough evaluation. They review your gynecological, medical, and family histories and ask about your menstrual cycle, symptoms, and when they began.

Next, your OB/GYN performs physical and internal pelvic exams. They may refer you for various diagnostic tests and/or procedures, including:

• Blood tests
• STD testing
• Urinalysis
• Ultrasound scan
• MRI or CT scan
• Pap smear
• Laparoscopy

The Urgyn team tailors treatment plans based on the condition’s underlying cause and what suits each person best.

What treatment might I need for abnormal bleeding?

Potential abnormal bleeding treatments include:

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs reduce pain and inflammation that often accompany abnormal bleeding.

Antibiotics

You might need antibiotics if you have a bacterial infection.

Hormonal birth control

Rebalancing your hormones can often reduce bleeding and help regulate your periods. Options include contraceptive pills, patches, vaginal rings, injections, implants, and hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs).

Endometrial ablation

Endometrial ablation removes the endometrium lining your uterus. Minimally invasive methods are available for most women to reduce discomfort and healing time. It’s important to avoid pregnancy after endometrial ablation, so this isn’t an option for women wishing to have children.

Uterine artery embolization

Uterine artery embolization is another minimally invasive procedure where your OB/GYN seals the blood vessels feeding uterine fibroids.

If no other treatments work and abnormal bleeding causes significant challenges, surgery like myomectomy (fibroid removal) may be necessary.

Call Urgyn or request an appointment online today for expert abnormal bleeding treatment.