Overview

Abnormal uterine bleeding is characterised by atypical and irregular bleeding from the uterus, deviating from a woman's usual menstrual pattern. It can include heavy or prolonged periods, bleeding between periods, or postmenopausal bleeding. Hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids, polyps, endometrial hyperplasia, or underlying medical conditions can contribute to this condition. Seeking medical attention is important for the proper evaluation and diagnosis of abnormal uterine bleeding.

The menstrual bleeding in this medical condition can be heavier than the normal blood flow for a female suffering from gynaecological disorder. In severe conditions, the affected individual may experience the harsh symptoms of the disease due to cancer. The condition may also lead to health issues like infertility.

Causes of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

Mentioned below are some of the Abnormal Uterine Bleeding causes that help to identify the disease and begin the treatment in the early stages:

- Hormonal Imbalance- Hormonal imbalance is one of the major causes of multiple gynaecological disorders. It can also lead to abnormal bleeding. Women suffering from hormonal issues may lack progesterone or have excessive oestrogen, leading to hormonal imbalance and abnormal bleeding. In case of such issues, it is advised to get professional medical help rather than procrastinating the treatment.
- Hypothyroidism- Hypothyroidism is one of the causes of this gynaecological disorder. The medical condition leads to heavy menstrual flow, pain, and other gynaecological disorders. The condition can also lead to many other health issues, such as infertility, miscarriage, and other similar issues. Therefore, the condition should be immediately treated, or it can worsen the bleeding.
- PCOS- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, also known as PCOS, is a gynaecological disorder leading to conditions such as heavy uterine bleeding between periods, hormonal imbalance, and even issues in conceiving. If not treated on time, the condition can lead to issues during menopause and other health disorders. The condition can also result in other health issues, such as weight gain, abnormal facial hair, and acne.
- Fibroids- Fibroids are one of the major causes of abnormal uterine bleeding. The uterine fibroids grow against the uterine lining, causing pressure on the lining. This results in heavy menstrual flow, longer periods, or spotting between the menstrual days. Such conditions can also be accompanied by abdominal pain and weakness. Such symptoms cause inconvenience in the affected individual's daily routine, leading to weakness and inability to concentrate properly.
- Reproductive Tract Infections- Infections in the reproductive tract, such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), can lead to inflammation and abnormal bleeding.
- Medications- Certain medications, such as anticoagulants or hormonal treatments, may contribute to abnormal uterine bleeding as a side effect.
- Endometrial Hyperplasia- This condition involves the excessive growth of the uterine lining, which can result in irregular and heavy bleeding.

Symptoms of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

Mentioned below are the Abnormal Uterine Bleeding symptoms helpful in identifying the disease and beginning the treatment on time:

- Heavy Bleeding- Uterine bleeding in between periods is one of the symptoms of the disease. The bleeding is heavy and irregular. The condition can also be accompanied by abdominal pain, weakness, fatigue, and other similar health issues. One may also experience spotting in between periods under such circumstances.
- Bleeding after Intercourse- Bleeding after intercourse is also one of the symptoms of abnormal uterine bleeding. The condition can occur due to various other medical illnesses, such as pelvic inflammation, STIs, and other similar disorders. It can be accompanied by abdominal or pelvic pain.
- Ovulation Issues- Issues with ovulation or improper periods are uterine bleeding symptoms. It happens due to hormonal imbalance and various other gynaecological disorders. If not treated on time, the situation can worsen, leading to issues in a female while conceiving or medical hazards such as miscarriage. In addition, such situations affect the menstrual cycle of a female. They may lead to inconsistent periods, longer or shorter than usual period days, or spotting in between the menstrual cycle.
- Hot Flashes- A female suffering from abnormal bleeding may also experience hot flashes. The affected individual might also feel weak, tired, and unable to concentrate on things. The patient may also experience feelings of being sick or feverish. Therefore, in case of such sudden symptoms, it is advised to get professional medical help to understand the root cause of the illness.
- Postmenopausal Bleeding- Any vaginal bleeding that occurs after menopause is considered abnormal and should be evaluated promptly.
- Clots or Tissue Passage- Passing large blood clots during menstruation or noticing the passage of unusual tissue-like material.

Treatment Options for Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

Mentioned below are some of the Abnormal Uterine Bleeding treatment options that help lower the symptoms of the disease:

- Medications- Depending on the patient's current medical condition, the doctor might suggest birth control pills, progestin, NSAIDs, GnRH, and similar medications. The medicines help to lower the symptoms of the disease by balancing the hormonal levels and lowering the issues in the ovulation process. Heavy bleeding is controlled and makes the affected individual feel relieved.
- Hysteroscopy is a surgery that helps remove obstructions in the ovulation process leading to excessive bleeding. The surgery involves the removal of uterine fibroids and polyps that are found on the lining of the uterus, pressurising the lining and being the cause of heavy bleeding. The doctor suggests the surgery after diagnosing the medical condition of the patient.
- Endometrial Ablation destroys the uterine lining through freezing, laser, or heat beams. The surgery is recommended for older females suffering from the medical illness. However, the surgery is not advisable for females who wish to conceive in future.
- Hormonal Therapy- Hormonal medications, such as birth control pills, hormonal IUDs, or hormone replacement therapy, can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce abnormal bleeding.

When to Consult a Doctor

You can also get in touch with the expert Gynecology doctors at Narayana Healthcare based in your city to get immediate attention and medical support during injuries, health disorders or any other health concern.

Conclusion

Abnormal Uterine Bleeding is a gynaecological disorder involving heavy blood flow from the uterus between periods. The condition can happen due to multiple gynaecological issues. Not being treated on time can also cause issues while conceiving for a female. Proper medications or required forms of surgery can help to reverse the disorder.

FAQ’s

Q. What is Abnormal Uterine Bleeding? A. It is a medical condition involving heavy uterine bleeding during the menstrual cycle. The medical disorder can happen due to multiple gynaecological disorders.

Q. What are the symptoms of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding? A. PCOS, improper periods, heavy blood flow, facial hair, and sudden weight gain are common symptoms of the gynaecological disorder.

Reference Links

- https://www.narayanahealth.org/blog/uterus-fibroids-causes-symptoms-diagnosis-treatment-options/
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15428-uterine-bleeding-abnormal-uterine-bleeding
- https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000903.htm