Abnormal vaginal bleeding is something that many women go through. It happens mostly due to hormonal variations and is harmless (noncancerous). However, vaginal bleeding is also linked to several conditions. Therefore, getting it checked out by the best lady gynecologist in Bhubaneswar is crucial.
What is Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding?
Abnormal uterine bleeding refers to bleeding between periods or having ongoing/excessive bleeding. While infections and hormone fluctuations might cause it, it can also be a sign of more severe issues.
- As spotting or bleeding between your periods
- After sex
- For more days than your usual period
- Heavier than normal
- After menopause
Make an appointment with your gynecologist immediately if you notice any abnormal bleeding.
Symptoms
Abnormal vaginal bleeding can occur in a few different ways:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding: Heavy period bleeding can get in the way of your daily life. This includes periods with unexpected vaginal bleeding that last more than 24 hours and soaking more than one pad every hour. Heavy bleeding also includes bleeding that continues for longer than seven or eight days. In case this happens, consult a gynecologist right away.
- Spots or bleeding in between periods: Any bleeding that lasts longer than two cycles per month or heavy spotting.
- Douching or sex-related bleeding: Douching and bleeding after intercourse are signs of cervical and vaginal cancer.
- Irregular menstrual bleeding: These menstrual cycles range from 24 to 38 days.
- Delays in menstruation: Inconsistent menstrual cycles are defined as those with a duration difference of more than eight to ten days.
- Post-menopause bleeding: Periods that happen after menopause.
- Missed periods: This includes going three to six months or more without having periods.
Different Forms Of Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
You can classify abnormal uterine or vaginal bleeding as follows:
- Acute: When heavy bleeding starts suddenly and immediately needs medical treatment, it’s called acute bleeding. This usually indicates that you use a pad or tampon every hour.
- Chronic: Abnormal bleeding that occurs repeatedly for over six months is known as chronic bleeding. This can involve episodes of abnormally heavy vaginal bleeding.
Causes Of Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
Abnormal vaginal bleeding can be caused by any gynecologic cancer except vulvar cancer. Some medical conditions that could trigger it are:
- Infection
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Uterine fibroids
- Uterine polyps
- Cervicitis
- Endometriosis
- Fibroid tumors
- Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
- Pregnancy complications
Diagnosis
When you visit a gynecologist concerning abnormal vaginal bleeding, they will ask you questions related to the timing, duration, and severity of the bleeding, along with other symptoms.
To further narrow down the possible causes of your bleeding, your doctor may order a range of diagnostic tests, including a pelvic exam, blood tests, ultrasound, hysteroscopy (a telescopic view of the cervix and uterus), colposcopy (a close examination of the cervix, vagina, and vulva).
Treatment
Treatment options for irregular bleeding depend on the cause, your age, and your fertility goals. To find the best course of treatment, you can consult a lady gynecologist. Some of the options are:
- Birth Control Pills:
Hormones in birth control medications can avoid an abnormally thick uterine lining. They are also helpful in easing discomfort and maintaining a regular menstrual cycle. The progestin-only pill, sometimes known as the “mini-pill,” is one kind of birth control that has the potential to induce irregular bleeding. If the medication you are taking does not stop your excessive bleeding, you should consult a doctor immediately.
- Intrauterine Device (IUD):
IUD is also an option. It is a small, plastic device inserted into your uterus through your vagina to prevent conception. An IUD that delivers hormones can considerably minimize irregular bleeding. However, just like with birth control pills, an IUD can cause unusual bleeding.
- Dilation And Curettage (D&C):
During a dilation and compression procedure, a surgical instrument is inserted into the uterus by stretching the opening of the cervix. This instrument is used to remove the uterine lining. The lining is removed and sent to a lab to analyze suspicious tissue.
- Hysterectomy:
A hysterectomy involves surgically removing the uterus. You will no longer have periods and will also be unable to conceive after a hysterectomy. The recovery time is also very long. Consult your doctor to understand the risks and advantages of hysterectomy.
- Endometrial Ablation:
In this method, the uterine lining is surgically removed. It differs from a hysterectomy as the uterus is not removed. Even though endometrial ablation can stop periods entirely, some patients may experience little bleeding or spotting in the days following the procedure.
Summary
Abnormal vaginal bleeding refers to bleeding that happens in an abnormal amount, at an irregular time, or for a long duration. While most of the time, it is caused by something noncancerous, like uterine fibroids, infection, or medicine, it could also be a sign of a serious gynecologic condition. To find the exact cause, consult the best lady gynecologist in Bhubaneswar.
You should always take seriously any signs of abnormal vaginal bleeding. For accurate diagnosis and treatment, make an appointment with Dr. Ushashree Das.