What is Considered Abnormal Bleeding for Women?

Many women can experience some type of abnormal bleeding in their lives. It typically occurs in the time between periods. Bleeding is considered irregular or abnormal when it occurs:
A. During a period that is exceptionally light or heavy.
B. At a time when the bleeding is not anticipated including the time before puberty, following menopause, or during pregnancy.
C. Between menstrual cycles or when not anticipating having a menstrual period.

D. While being on birth control pills or other hormonal birth control options including IUD, Nexplanon, or transdermal patch. 

What Causes Abnormal Bleeding?

Abnormal bleeding can be caused by various distinctive medical conditions and factors and generally, when it appears alone it is not a warning of a serious medical condition. However, any bleeding occurring during pregnancy should be assessed. as it could be an indication of serious medical concern. The following medical conditions could lead to abnormal bleeding:

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• Uterine or cervical polyps

• Oral medications including birth control pills

• An intrauterine device, or IUD

• Subdermal implant, Nexplanon

• Ovulation

• Infection of pelvic organs such as the vagina, cervix, fallopian tubes, uterus, or ovaries

• Fibroids

• Endometriosis

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

• Endometrial Hyperplasia

• Endometrial cancer

• Cervical cancer 

What Should I Do if I Experience Abnormal Bleeding?

If you have abnormal bleeding which causes you to lose consciousness, get to the hospital immediately. If you experience severe abdominal or pelvic pain, excessive bleeding that lasts for more than two hours, makes you feel dizzy or lightheaded, or like you may faint, please go into the office or contact the doctor right away.

Keep a close eye on your symptoms and contact the doctor in the following situations:

A. if you are or think you could be pregnant

B. if you develop a fever

C. if the bleeding gets worse or lasts longer than 7 days

D. if  you experience new pain during the bleeding

 

Once the cause of the bleeding is identified, the doctor will be able to address the condition and ensure that it is kept under control or stopped.