Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: Causes and Treatments

Study Notes

Abnormal uterine bleeding is a common health issue affecting many women. It can occur when there's too much blood flow during menstrual periods, between periods, after sex, or even if you haven't had your period yet. This type of bleeding isn't always serious, but it could be a sign of a more severe problem like fibroids, polyps, cancer, endometriosis, hormonal imbalances, pelvic inflammatory disease, stress, or problems with pregnancy. If you experience abnormal uterine bleeding, you should see a healthcare provider to find out what might be causing it so they can help you get better treatment.

There are several types of abnormal uterine bleeding issues, including:

Menorrhagia - this happens when menstrual periods last longer than usual or have heavy bleeding.
Metrorrhagia - this involves irregular bleeding between menstrual cycles.
Polymenorrhea - this refers to very frequent menstrual periods.
Postcoital spotting - this occurs when you bleed after having sexual intercourse.
Hypomenorrhea - this means light bleeding during menstrual periods.
Amenorrhea - this happens when someone doesn't have their first period by age 16 or hasn't had one within three years after their first period started.

Abnormal uterine bleeding may also affect fertility because it can make it harder for eggs to move through the fallopian tubes into the uterus where sperm meets them. However, most cases don't require any special treatments beyond birth control pills or other medications prescribed by doctors specific to each person's needs. In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove growths inside the uterus causing the bleeding. For example, a dilation and curettage procedure (D&C) removes tissue from the uterus using suction. Another option is a myomectomy, which surgically removes fibroids but leaves behind part of the lining called myometrium. Other options for treating abnormal uterine bleeding include hormone therapy or surgery such as a hysterectomy.

Description

Learn about the common types, causes, and treatments of abnormal uterine bleeding, a health issue that affects many women. Explore conditions such as menorrhagia, metrorrhagia, and amenorrhea, as well as treatment options like medication, surgery, and hormone therapy.