Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
What is Abnormal Uterine Bleeding?
Hormonal disorders, pregnancy complications, fibroids, polyps, cancer, and other illnesses are just a few of the many causes of AUB.The cause might not always be known.AUB can vary in severity from light spotting to very heavy bleeding that lasts for more than 7 days per menstrual cycle.Between periods, after sex, or after menopause are other times when it can happen.AUB is typically not life-threatening, but it can be annoying and inconvenient.Heavy bleeding, however, can cause anemia, which is a medical emergency.Please visit your healthcare provider or the closest emergency room if you are bleeding heavily.
What are the main symptoms of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding?
The most typical sign of abnormal uterine bleeding is bleeding that is heavier, continues for a longer period of time, or happens more frequently than is typical for you. Other signs might include:
-Using a sanitary pad or tampon at least once an hour for several hours straight.
-Having to get out of bed at night to replace sanitary napkins or tampons
- Bleeding in between periods
-Menstrual cycles lasting more than seven days
-Viral bleeding following menopause
It's crucial to see your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms so they can identify the underlying issue and, if necessary, administer the appropriate treatment. Abnormal uterine bleeding, if left untreated, can result in fatal outcomes, including anemia (low blood iron levels). Most women will at some point in their lives deal with the issue of abnormal uterine bleeding. Be sure to discuss your worries with your healthcare provider.
How is Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Diagnosed?
Your doctor will conduct a physical examination, inquire about your medical history, and address your symptoms.To help determine the cause of your AUB, they might also order blood tests and imaging tests (like ultrasounds).
Treatment for Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
The cause of abnormal uterine bleeding determines the course of treatment. Sometimes no treatment is required. For instance, the symptoms might disappear on their own if the cause is a transient hormonal imbalance. Treatment might be required if the underlying problem is more serious, like cancer. Abnormal uterine bleeding may be treated with the following methods:
Medicines:
Drugs are used to treat abnormal uterine bleeding that is brought on by hormonal imbalances or uterine abnormalities. These drugs can help to reduce the size of fibroids or polyps and control bleeding.
Dilation and curettage (D&C):
This is a surgical technique that dilates the cervix and removes the uterine lining. This can be done to treat uterine abnormalities or cancer-related abnormal uterine bleeding.
Endometrial ablation:
This is a surgical treatment that destroys the uterine lining. It can be used to treat non-cancerous abnormal uterine bleeding.
Hysterectomy:
This is a surgical treatment that removes the uterus. It can be used to treat Abnormal Uterine Bleeding that is resistant to other treatments.
Treatment will be required if a more serious condition, like cancer, is the cause of AUB.Medication, surgery, and radiation therapy are available as treatments.
Prevention of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
Please consult your healthcare provider if you have any symptoms of AUB or if you have any concerns.They can suggest the best courses of treatment for you and assist in identifying the cause.
Main causes of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
Abnormal uterine bleeding can have many different causes, and frequently the cause is not known with certainty. Several potential reasons include:
-Hormonal issues: Issues with the hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle can result in abnormal uterine bleeding. This may be brought on by illnesses like pituitary tumors, thyroid problems, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Abnormal uterine bleeding can result from abnormalities of the uterus (womb). Uterine fibroids, polyps, and cancer are a few examples of these abnormalities.
-Infections: Reproductive system infections can occasionally result in abnormal uterine bleeding. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) are examples of these infections.
-Medications: Abnormal uterine bleeding is a side effect of some medicines. These drugs include tamoxifen (a breast cancer drug), anti-inflammatory drugs, and blood thinners.
-Additional conditions Complicated pregnancies, endometriosis, and bleeding disorders are a few additional conditions that can result in abnormal uterine bleeding.