What is Abnormal Bleeding?
Also known as uterine bleeding, abnormal vaginal bleeding refers to any release of blood that occurs outside your menstrual period often as the result of hormonal changes or infections. This refers to extended periods of heavy bleeding, spotting that occurs at irregular points throughout your period and menstrual periods that fill pads in under an hour. Those who suffer from this condition may have periods that last longer than 5-7 days, with or without spotting in the time between menstruation.
What To Know About Abnormal Bleeding
The prolonged and chronic bleeding associated with abnormal vaginal bleeding can be debilitating. The majority of women only produce about 40ml of blood when menstruating, which is released over a period of 5-7 days. Heavy spotting or periods that last longer than this should be addressed by your physician as it can indicate that a more serious underlying condition is present. Normal vaginal bleeding is the result of the endometrium lining being shed when pregnancy does not occur. While there can be slight variations in the menstrual cycle, they occur more or less regularly. When the period of bleeding is overly long, spotting occurs, or the amount of bloodshed is heavy, then abnormal vaginal bleeding may be present.
What Can Lead To Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding?
There are many things that can cause this condition, and in many cases, the specific cause cannot be identified. Among those that have been identified, the following are the most commonly seen by gynecologists:
- Uterine Fibroids
- Infections
- Polyps
- Hormonal Changes
- Endometrial Cancer
- Bleeding Disorders
- Endometrial Hyperplasia
20% of all women experience excessive bleeding, which begins sometime between the age of 30 and 40. If you suspect you may be experiencing abnormal vaginal bleeding, call your physician today.
Questions To Ask Your Physician If You’re Concerned About Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
If you suspect you’re experiencing AVB, contact your physician and ask them the following questions:
- What Is The Length Of A Normal Period? Normal menstruation is considered to last 5-7 days.
- When Is Bleeding Considered Abnormal or Heavy? If you’re soaking more than one sanitary napkin a day, you are considered to be experiencing heavy bleeding.
- How Often Should I Menstruate? You should experience a normal period lasting 5-7 days once every three weeks.
- Is Fatigue A Symptom of AVB? Reduced energy, weakness, and extreme fatigue are all common symptoms that occur with AVB.
- What Common Complications Occur With Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding? Difficult with sexual relations, exercising, working, and other normal day to day activities.
The above are some of the most common symptoms associated with Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding. A visit to your physician will help you determine if the symptoms you’re experiencing are part of AVB or are indicative of another health concern.
How We Help Our Patients With Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
We provide our patients with a variety of treatment and diagnostic options to help with common women’s health concerns like abnormal vaginal bleeding. During your visit, you’ll undergo an exam that may include biopsy, pelvic ultrasounds, hysteroscopy, and other lab tests. The information gathered from these tests will be used to determine the source of your bleeding and what treatment options will be appropriate to manage it.
If you’re experiencing AVB or are simply looking for a comprehensive women’s health care provider for you and your family, call us today. We’ll answer your questions, arrange your appointment, and help you prepare ahead of time so you can make the most of your time at our clinic.
