What is considered abnormal bleeding?
A normal menstrual cycle lasts 24-38 days and includes 4-8 days of bleeding. Abnormal bleeding includes:
- A menstrual cycle shorter than 24 days
- A menstrual cycle longer than 38 days
- Bleeding that lasts longer than eight days
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Bleeding in between your cycles
- Bleeding after menopause
Though many women experience abnormal bleeding at various times throughout their life, if your abnormal bleeding occurs regularly or affects your quality of life, contact Philadelphia Women's Health & Wellness to schedule an evaluation.
What causes abnormal bleeding?
Abnormal bleeding may develop from any number of gynecological causes. Some of the most common include:
- Fibroids
- Polyps
- Endometriosis
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Side effect of hormonal birth control
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Gynecological cancer
- STD
In some cases, the exact cause of abnormal bleeding is unknown. However, if your periods are heavy it may affect your quality of life or cause other health problems such as anemia.
What can I expect during an abnormal bleeding consultation?
You can expect a thorough evaluation when you come in to see the team at Philadelphia Women's Health & Wellness. During your evaluation, the team asks detailed questions about your menstrual cycle, symptoms and when they started, gynecological and medical history, and family history.
The team then performs a physical and pelvic exam and may run various diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of your abnormal bleeding.
Your testing may include:
- Bloodwork
- Pap smear
- HPV test
- STD testing
- Urinalysis
- Ultrasound
- MRI
In some cases, the team may perform a laparoscopy to better understand the cause of your abnormal bleeding. During the minimally invasive procedure, your provider inserts a laparoscope through a small incision in your abdomen that transmits images to a computer screen for a closer evaluation of your reproductive organs.
How is abnormal bleeding treated?
The team at Philadelphia Women's Health & Wellness develops individualized treatment plans for abnormal bleeding based on the underlying cause.
Treatment may include:
- Hormonal birth control
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Antibiotics
- Disease-specific medication
- Endometrial ablation
Surgical intervention may also be needed depending on the cause of your abnormal bleeding.
For comprehensive and compassionate care for abnormal bleeding, contact Philadelphia Women's Health & Wellness by phone or online today.
