Most women have a “normal” cycle that lasts about five to seven days and occurs every 21-35 days. Signs that you have abnormal bleeding include:

• bleeding for longer than seven days consistently
• infrequent periods
• extremely heavy bleeding that can’t be controlled with hygiene products
• spotting between periods
• bleeding after menopause

Keep in mind that every woman’s cycle is different, however, and some women naturally bleed more than others. Your period shouldn’t stop you from engaging in normal activities or cause cramping or bleeding so severe that you can’t work or attend school. If uterine bleeding regularly disrupts your life, it’s time to contact our office. 

Abnormal uterine bleeding can cause anxiety, embarrassment, and disruption in your daily activities and seriously interfere with your quality of life.  In addition, abnormal bleeding may signal a serious health issue that needs medical attention. If you ignore the condition, it delays diagnosis and treatment and prolongs your suffering. Additionally, if you bleed heavily or frequently, you’re also at risk of developing iron-deficiency anemia and fatigue. Rest assured that the team at Alliance Obstetrics & Gynecology is compassionate and thorough as we partner with you to find the cause of your abnormal bleeding and help you resolve it.

Abnormal bleeding can be caused by numerous conditions, so a thorough diagnostic exam is required to pinpoint the root cause of your problem. Some common causes include:

• adenomyosis (overgrowth of the uterine lining into the muscle of the uterus)
• benign uterine fibroids and polyps
• bleeding disorders
• miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy
• polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• problems with an IUD
• perimenopause
• infection in the uterus

In more rare cases, abnormal uterine bleeding may signal certain types of cancer. Determining the cause of abnormal bleeding is an important step in helping you find a resolution.

The first thing your physician will do when evaluating your heavy menstrual bleeding is ask you about the frequency, amount, and duration of your periods so it is helpful to keep notes about your period for the past few months. For example, how many days did you bleed? How many pads or tampons did you use on your heaviest day of flow? It is also important to make a list of all of your medications (including over the counter and vitamin supplements) to bring to your appointment. 

A pelvic examination is typically performed to feel for the size and shape of your uterus and ovaries. Based on your symptoms and the findings of your examination, your physician may order: 

• pregnancy test 
• blood tests to look for hormone dysfunction 
• an ultrasound to look more closely at your uterus 

Sometimes, your physician may perform a procedure in the office called a hysteroscopy to look inside of your uterus with a camera or take a sample of the lining of your uterus with a very small suction tube.  This is performed in the comforts of the Alliance Obstetrics & Gynecology office with local anesthesia to minimize discomfort.  

Once the cause of your abnormal uterine bleeding is identified, your physician will develop an appropriate treatment plan. Very often, we can offer medical treatment that may include hormone therapy to balance out issues associated with adenomyosis, fibroids, PCOS, perimenopause. Sometimes procedures or surgeries are needed and Dr. Worley and Dr. Silva specialize in a minimally invasive surgeries and make educating you on your treatment options a priority so you can make an informed decision about your health.