Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB) is a common but often concerning condition that affects women of all ages. It refers to any deviation from normal menstrual patterns, including changes in the frequency, duration, or volume of menstrual bleeding. At our clinic, we are committed to diagnosing and treating AUB with expertise and compassion, helping you regain control over your reproductive health.
Understanding Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
AUB can manifest in several ways, including:
- Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (Menorrhagia): Excessive bleeding during periods, often requiring frequent changes of sanitary products or lasting longer than a week.
- Intermenstrual Bleeding: Bleeding between regular menstrual periods.
- Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Unpredictable cycle lengths, varying from very short to very long.
- Prolonged Menstrual Bleeding: Periods that extend beyond the typical duration of 3-7 days.
- Postmenopausal Bleeding: Any bleeding occurring after menopause.
Causes of AUB
A variety of factors can contribute to abnormal uterine bleeding, including:
- Hormonal Imbalances: Fluctuations in hormones like estrogen and progesterone can disrupt the menstrual cycle.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A condition characterized by irregular periods due to hormonal imbalances.
- Fibroids: Noncancerous growths in the uterus that can cause heavy or prolonged bleeding.
- Polyps: Small growths on the lining of the uterus or cervix that can lead to irregular bleeding.
- Endometriosis: A condition where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus grows outside of it, causing pain and bleeding.
- Adenomyosis: When the tissue that normally lines the uterus grows into its muscular wall.
- Thyroid Disorders: Thyroid gland issues can affect menstrual regularity and volume.
- Coagulation Disorders: Blood clotting issues can cause abnormal bleeding.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as anticoagulants and hormonal contraceptives, can impact menstrual bleeding.
- Cancer: In rare cases, AUB can be a sign of uterine, cervical, or ovarian cancer.
Diagnosis of AUB
Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. Our diagnostic approach includes:
- Medical History Review: Detailed discussion of your menstrual cycle, overall health, and any symptoms.
- Physical Examination: A pelvic exam to check for abnormalities.
- Laboratory Tests: Blood tests to check for hormonal imbalances, thyroid function, and clotting disorders.
- Imaging Studies: Ultrasound, MRI, or hysteroscopy to visualize the uterus and identify abnormalities like fibroids, polyps, or structural issues.
- Endometrial Biopsy: Sampling the uterine lining to check for cancerous or precancerous conditions.
Treatment Options for AUB
Treatment for AUB depends on the underlying cause, the severity of symptoms, and your personal health goals. Our comprehensive treatment options include:
- Medication: Hormonal therapies, such as birth control pills, hormonal IUDs, or progesterone treatments, can help regulate menstrual cycles. Non-hormonal options like tranexamic acid or NSAIDs may reduce bleeding.
- Surgical Interventions: For more severe cases, we offer minimally invasive procedures, including:
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- Hysteroscopy: Removal of polyps or fibroids.
- Endometrial Ablation: A procedure to destroy the lining of the uterus to reduce or stop bleeding.
- Myomectomy: Surgical removal of fibroids.
- Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus, considered in severe cases where other treatments have failed.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Nutritional guidance and exercise recommendations to help manage symptoms.
- Management of Underlying Conditions: Treating conditions like PCOS, thyroid disorders, or coagulation issues that may be contributing to AUB.
Personalized Care for AUB
At our clinic, we understand that abnormal uterine bleeding can significantly impact your quality of life.
If you are experiencing abnormal uterine bleeding, don’t hesitate to seek help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards managing your health with expert care.