Abnormal Bleeding

Abnormal uterine bleeding includes bleeding between periods and prolonged or excessive bleeding during your period. Our expert OB/GYN team at The Howard Center diagnoses and treats all types of abnormal bleeding at our locations throughout Georgia If you’re concerned about abnormal uterine bleeding, call the nearest office today or request an appointment online.

What is abnormal bleeding?

Abnormal uterine bleeding is bleeding that’s longer or heavier than your normal period. Bleeding or spotting in-between monthly periods or after sex is also abnormal.

A typical menstrual cycle is 21-38 days, with periods lasting about 4-8 days. Menstrual cycles that are shorter or longer than this, and those that vary by more than 7-9 days from month to month, are considered abnormal.

How common is abnormal bleeding?

If you experience abnormal uterine bleeding, you’re not alone. As many as 35% of women across the globe may have abnormal uterine bleeding. However, because abnormal bleeding often goes unreported, it’s unclear exactly how many women it affects.

It’s important to tell your provider at The Howard Center about any abnormal bleeding symptoms you experience because they may indicate an underlying problem that needs treatment. Our compassionate OB/GYNs understand this is a sensitive subject and go above and beyond to make you feel comfortable.

What causes abnormal bleeding?

Many conditions can cause abnormal bleeding. Some of the most common causes include:

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Uterine fibroids and polyps
• Endometriosis
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Uterine and cervical cancers

Problems with certain birth control methods, such as intrauterine devices (IUDs), can also cause abnormal bleeding.

Hormonal changes in the years leading up to menopause can make your periods heavier, longer, and more or less frequent. Any uterine bleeding after menopause is abnormal and requires medical attention.

How is abnormal bleeding diagnosed?

First, your provider at The Howard Center reviews your symptoms and medical history. They perform a pelvic exam and may take various tests, such as a Pap test and ultrasound, to determine the cause of your abnormal bleeding.

More advanced tests may include hysteroscopy to visually examine the inside of your uterus, diagnostic laparoscopy, and an endometrial biopsy to check for cancer.

How is abnormal bleeding treated?

After they diagnose the cause of the abnormal bleeding, our team at The Howard Center recommends the more appropriate course of treatment. Depending on your needs, treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding may include:

• Hormonal birth control methods
• Medications, such as tranexamic acid, to reduce heavy bleeding
• Endometrial ablation with NovaSure® to destroy the lining of the uterus
• Uterine artery embolization to treat fibroids
• Myomectomy surgery to remove fibroids
• Hysterectomy surgery to remove the uterus

Our team at The Howard Center has extensive expertise with minimally invasive surgery, including hysterectomy, myomectomy, and endometrial ablation procedures.

Don’t hesitate to seek treatment for abnormal bleeding; call The Howard Center today or request an appointment online.