Abnormal uterine bleeding disorder is a condition where a woman experiences heavy or unusual bleeding from the uterus. The event can take place at any time during the month.
The following are a few scenarios where bleeding is considered abnormal:
When menstruation lasts more than 35 days or less than 21 days (normal menstruation lasts five to seven days and occurs every 21 to 35 days)
Bleeding lasts more than 7 days
No period for 3 to 6 months
Bleeding after menopause
It is one of the most common gynecologic problems among women. However, it is important to remember not everyone who experiences abnormal uterine bleeding reports their symptoms.
Now after gaining the basic understanding of the issue, it is also crucial to understand the causes behind the vaginal bleeding or spotting.
So, let’s start with the causes.
What Causes Abnormal Uterine Bleeding?
Hormonal imbalance is often the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding. In addition to this reason, there are several other reasons for the problem, which are as follows:
Fibroids or polyps (Lumps in the lining of the uterus)
Polycystic ovary syndrome ( A condition when cysts grow on the ovaries)
Miscarriage
Ovulatory dysfunction
Ectopic pregnancy
Blood clotting disorders
Use of contraceptives
Remember, this list is not exhaustive. The specific cause of AUB can vary depending on individual factors. This is why the importance of a gynecologist cannot be overstated. They can perform a comprehensive examination, analyze patients' medical history, and potentially recommend tests to pinpoint the exact cause of AUB.
Treatment of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
Medication
The treatment of abnormal uterine bleeding depends on the cause and the patient's situation. However, drugs are usually the first thing your doctor will try.
For instance, if the cause behind the bleeding is hormonal imbalance, a gynecologist may suggest taking birth control pills. It is a common option for those not trying to conceive or in perimenopause.
But for women trying to conceive or avoid hormone side effects, the following medications are used instead of hormones:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Tranexamic acid
Procedure
Intrauterine device (IUD): This is a common practice where a device is inserted inside the woman's uterus to prevent pregnancy. And there is one such type of it that releases hormones and is used to treat abnormal uterine bleeding.
Remember: Sometimes, IUDs can be the cause of abnormal bleeding. So, consult with your gynecologist if you experience something like this.
Dilation and curettage (D&C): This procedure involves stretching the cervix to allow the surgeon to place a surgical instrument inside the uterus and scrape away the lining. Its best part is that it stops heavy bleeding and helps identify and treat the bleeding's cause.
Endometrial ablation: If bleeding continues after a D and C, this procedure that destroys or removes the lining of the uterus through the use of a laser, heat, electricity, microwave energy, or freezing can often help control bleeding.
Remember: In some women, it causes scarring of the endometrium (Asherman syndrome); scarring can cause menstrual bleeding to stop (amenorrhea) and make biopsy of the endometrium difficult later.
If the problem persists, uterus removal is the next option.
After reading the above information, you might get an idea about the subject's complexity. That is why it is important for students preparing for university examinations to have an in-depth knowledge of each method and the best clinical practices.
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