Spotting or bleeding when you’re not on your period can be alarming and annyoying. If you’re concerned that you may have abnormal uterine bleeding, the experts at Capital Women’s Care in Leesburg and Sterling, Virginia, can help. Under the guidance of board-certified OB/GYN physicians, women can rest assured they’re receiving the best possible care. Since abnormal uterine bleeding could be a sign of a serious issue, book your appointment online today.
Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Q&A
What is abnormal uterine bleeding?
Light spotting between your periods is sometimes just a side effect of using a new contraceptive or ovulation, however, it can also be a sign of hormonal imbalance or even malignancy.
If you’re bleeding heavily or at an irregular time, or if the bleeding starts and stops suddenly, you may be experiencing abnormal uterine bleeding symptoms. You might also experience it after sexual intercourse or after you’ve already gone through menopause.
It’s important to note that AUB does not happen when you’re pregnant — if you experience bleeding during pregnancy, please make sure to see your physician immediately, as this could indicate a miscarriage or another problem with the pregnancy.
What causes abnormal uterine bleeding?
Several contributing factors may cause abnormal uterine bleeding. Your dedicated physician at Capital Women’s Care will diagnose what is happening based on your age group, health history, and risk factors.
Some of the causes of AUB might include:
- Ovulation problems
- Uterine fibroids or polyps
- Complications with an IUD device or birth control pills
- Uterine infection
- Endometriosis
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Cancer of the uterus, ovaries, or cervix
- Extreme weight loss
- Bleeding disorders
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
To determine what might be causing your abnormal uterine bleeding symptoms, your physician will also want to know details about the regularity of your menstrual cycle and typical bleeding patterns.
How is abnormal uterine bleeding treated?
Your physician will rule out any serious causes of AUB, such as cancer or blood disorders. To do this, she may order blood, liver, and hormone tests. You will most likely have a Pap test and a full pelvic exam as well. An ultrasound is also commonly considered.
Treatment for AUB might include a combination of different methods, including:
- Hormone therapy
- Oral contraceptives (low-dose birth control pills)
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID)
- Iron supplements (if you have anemia and heavy bleeding)
If your bleeding is due to fibroids or polyps, minimally invasive surgery might also be necessary to treat it. In some cases, your physician might also recommend a hysterectomy to remove your uterus.
For most women, hormone therapy can successfully treat AUB, but first, your physician must understand the root cause of your bleeding.
If you’re concerned about your own bleeding patterns, schedule a consultation with one of Capital Women’s Care physicians today.