What are the main symptoms of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding?
The most common symptom of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding is bleeding that is heavier, lasts longer, or occurs more often than what is normal for you. Other symptoms may include:
-Soaking through one or more sanitary pads or tampons every hour for several consecutive hours
-Needing to wake up at night to change sanitary pads or tampons
-Bleeding between menstrual periods
-Menstrual periods that last longer than seven days
-Vaginal bleeding after menopause
If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see your healthcare provider so they can determine the cause and provide treatment if needed. Left untreated, Abnormal Uterine Bleeding can lead to serious problems such as anemia (low iron levels in the blood) or even death. Abnormal Uterine Bleeding is a common problem, and most women will experience it at some point in their lives. If you have any concerns, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider.
Main causes of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
There are many different causes of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding, and often the exact cause is unknown. Some possible causes include:
-Hormonal problems: Abnormal Uterine Bleeding can be caused by problems with the hormones that control the menstrual cycle. This can be due to conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or pituitary tumors.
-Uterine abnormalities: Abnormalities of the uterus (womb) can cause Abnormal Uterine Bleeding. These abnormalities can include uterine fibroids, polyps, or cancer.
-Infections: Infections of the reproductive organs can sometimes cause Abnormal Uterine Bleeding. These infections include pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
-Medications: Certain medications can cause Abnormal Uterine Bleeding as a side effect. These medications include blood thinners, anti-inflammatory drugs, and tamoxifen (a breast cancer medication).
-Other conditions: Other conditions that can cause Abnormal Uterine Bleeding include pregnancy complications, endometriosis, and bleeding disorders.
How to treat Abnormal Uterine Bleeding?
The treatment for Abnormal Uterine Bleeding depends on the cause. In some cases, no treatment is necessary. For example, if the cause is a temporary hormonal imbalance, the symptoms may go away on their own. If the cause is more serious, such as cancer, treatment may be necessary. Treatment options for Abnormal Uterine Bleeding include:
-Medications: Medications can be used to treat Abnormal Uterine Bleeding caused by hormonal problems or uterine abnormalities. These medications can help to control bleeding and reduce the size of fibroids or polyps.
-Dilation and curettage (D&C): This is a surgical procedure in which the cervix is dilated and the lining of the uterus is removed. This can be done to treat Abnormal Uterine Bleeding caused by uterine abnormalities or cancer.
-Endometrial ablation: This is a surgical procedure in which the lining of the uterus is destroyed. It can be used to treat Abnormal Uterine Bleeding that is not caused by cancer.
-Hysterectomy: This is a surgical procedure in which the uterus is removed. It can be used to treat Abnormal Uterine Bleeding that does not respond to other treatments.
