Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is a prevalent issue in women of all ages. It refers to any deviations from a normal menstrual cycle in respect to frequency, duration or volume of bleeding.] Recognizing what is AUB is important for getting timely medical help. Let’s get into what AUB actually stands for
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Bleeding Gums
What is Normal in Menstruation?
A normal menstrual cycle occurs every 21 to 35 days, lasting 3 to 7 days of bleeding. There is a little bit of variance, from person to person. However, any significant variations from this pattern can be viewed as AUB.
Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Types
AUB can take multiple forms:
- Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (Menorrhagia): The heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding that soaks through pads or tampons each hour for several close by hours, needs the protection to be altered amid the night, or large blood clumps are passed.
- Bleeding Between Periods (Metrorrhagia or Intermenstrual Bleeding): Blood / spots between normal menstrual periods.
- Prolonged Bleeding This type is a combination of heavy and prolonged bleeding, where periods last longer than 7 days and also are heavier than normal Often.
- Bleeding After Menopause (Postmenopausal Bleeding): Any bleeding that happens postmenopause (12 months with no period), falls into the abnormal category, as it is not supposed to happen, and must be taken to a physician urgently.
- Frequent Bleeding (Polymenorrhea) — bleeds every 21 days or more frequently
- Rare Bleeding (Oligomenorrhea): When periods happen less often than every 35 days
What Triggers Abnormal Uterine Bleeding?
AUB can be caused by a number of factors:
- Hormonal Factories: Changes in the level of estrogen and progesterone can affect the regular cycle of menstruation. It is common during puberty, perimenopause, and in conditions such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
- Uterine Fibroids or Polyps: These benign growths in the uterus can lead to heavy or prolonged bleeding.
- Infections: The uterus, cervix, or fallopian tubes can cause abnormal bleeding.
- Specific Medical Conditions: AUB could be caused by certain medical conditions like thyroid disorders, bleeding disorders, and some types of cancer.
- Intrauterine Devices (IUD): Once properly placed, some IUDs may lead to heavier bleeding, especially copper IUDs.
- Specific Medications: Certain medications, including blood thinners, may also cause AUB.
- Pregnancy Complications: Some forms of abnormal bleeding can be caused by ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage.
How is AUB Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of AUB is based on a comprehensive assessment of:
- Medical History: Your doctor will ask specific questions about your menstrual cycle, symptoms and medical history.
- PE: Pelvic exam will be done.
- Blood Tests: These can check hormone levels, blood counts, and help rule some other medical conditions out.
- Ultrasound: This imaging test can check the uterus, ovaries and pelvic area for fibroids, polyps or other abnormalities.
- This is because a small tissue sample can be taken from the uterine lining, which is particularly important in women over 35 or with risk factors for endometrial cancer.
- Hysteroscopy — A thin, lighted tube with a camera is inserted into the uterus to see the uterine lining.
How is AUB Treated?
How AUB is treated depends on the cause, your age, and health status. Treatment options may include:
- Hormonal Therapies: Birth control pills, hormone patches, injections, or IUDs can balance hormone levels and manage bleeding.
- Bleeding-Reduction Medications: Medications such as tranexamic acid can lessen heavy monthly bleeding.
- Iron supplements: If heavy bleeding results in iron deficiency anemia, people may take iron supplements.
- Surgery: In certain situations, surgical intervention may be required:
- D&C (Dilatation and Curettage with Hysteroscopy): D&C involves dilating the cervix and scraping the lining of the uterus.
- Endometrial Ablation: This procedure destroys the uterine lining to help reduce or stop bleeding.
- Hysterectomy (Uterus Removal): This procedure is a major surgery and is generally reserved for a last resort.
CPR and First Aid Classes in Phoenix: Learn Essential Skills to Save Lives
When to See a Doctor
It is important to get checked by a healthcare provider if you experience any abnormal bleeding patterns, such as:
- Heavy bleeding that soaks through pads or tampons quite often.
- Bleeding between periods.
- Heavy periods over 7 days or more.
- Bleeding after menopause.
- Impromptu changes in your menstrual cycle.
If diagnosed early and properly managed, the outcome and quality of life is very much enhanced. If you’re feeling unsure about your bleeding patterns, don’t be afraid to seek medical advice from the best fertility doctor in Hyderabad.
Article Written By
Dr. Swapna Chekuri
MBBS, MS – Obstetrics & Gynecology
Clinical Director, Consultant Reproductive medicine
Fertility Specialist & Laparoscopic Surgeon
Practicing since 15 years
Hyderabad Women and Fertility Center – Best IVF Centre In Hyderabad
Address:4th Floor, Millennium Square, above Ratnadeep Supermarket, Lumbini Avenue, Gachibowli, Hyderabad, Telangana 500032
Phone: 09397973737
Get Directions
