Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: Causes and Solutions
For most women, menstrual cycles are regular, with bleeding between 3 and 7 days and returning approximately every 24 to 38 days. When bleeding falls outside of this framework, either too heavy, too long, irregular, or absent, it is referred to as abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB). AUB can affect women of all ages, and although distressing, knowing what causes AUB and what can be done about it is the beginning of the road to relief and preserving long-term reproductive health.
Panchkula is witnessing progress in women's reproductive care, with enhanced specialised clinics and advanced treatment centres now accessible. Women can now easily find the best gynaecologist Panchkula for professional assessment, early diagnosis, and tailored solutions for conditions like abnormal uterine bleeding. Panchkula's growing health infrastructure provides integrated maternal and gynaecological care, allowing women to access quality health services in one place.
What is Abnormal Uterine Bleeding?
Abnormal uterine bleeding is uterine bleeding that is irregular in volume, timing, or duration and is not related to normal menstruation. It occurs in women of childbearing age, adolescents starting their periods, or women reaching menopause. It can go from heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) to intermenstrual bleeding (metrorrhagia) or a prolonged menstrual cycle. AUB impacts daily functioning and can lead to fatigue, anaemia, and emotional distress, highlighting the importance of timely diagnosis.
Common Causes of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
There are several causes of AUB, and recognising the cause is important for treatment. The FIGO PALM-COEIN system has classified the causes into structural and non-structural categories.
Structural Causes (PALM)
Polyps: Polyps are small growths on the lining of the uterus that may lead to irregular or heavy bleeding.
Adenomyosis: When endometrial tissue invades the uterine muscle, it causes painful, heavy menstrual periods.
Leiomyomas (fibroids): Benign tumours of the uterus that may cause prolonged or heavy menstrual bleeding.
Malignancy or hyperplasia: Precancerous or cancerous lesions of the uterine lining.
Non-Structural Causes (COEIN)
Coagulopathy: Bleeding disorders that cause excessive bleeding.
Ovulatory dysfunction: Hormone Imbalances causing irregular ovulation, as seen in conditions such as PCOS or thyroid disease.
Endometrial causes: Local disorders affecting the uterine lining's ability to regulate bleeding.
Iatrogenic causes: Medication side effects, eg, anticoagulants or hormonal contraceptives.
Risk Factors
AUB may present in women at various stages of life, risk factors include:
Adolescence, with still-stabilising hormonal cycles
Perimenopause, with shifting hormone levels
Obesity, which can impact estrogen
Thyroid disease
Intrauterine device (IUD) use
Family history of bleeding disorders
Symptoms to Look Out For
Women with AUB might notice:
Periods that last more than 7 days
Heavy menstrual flow requiring frequent changes of pads or tampons.
Bleeding between or after sexual intercourse
Passing blood clots
Symptoms of anaemia, such as feeling weak, dizzy, or looking pale
If you experience more frequent or worsening symptoms, it's important to see a gynaecologist.
Diagnosing Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
To determine the cause of AUB, gynaecologists might suggest:
Physical examination and medical history: Including family history and menstrual patterns.
Blood test: To identify anaemia, clotting disorders, or thyroid disease.
Ultrasound of the pelvis: To look for fibroids, polyps, or other structural defects.
Endometrial biopsy: To exclude cancer or precancerous changes.
Hysteroscopy: A direct look inside the uterus to find abnormalities.
Treatment Options for Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
Treatment varies depending on the cause, severity of symptoms, age, and desire for children.
Medication
Hormonal treatment: Birth control pills, intrauterine devices (IUS), or hormone injections to control cycles.
Non-hormonal treatment: Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen) and tranexamic acid can lower blood loss.
Iron supplements: To manage anaemia due to ongoing blood loss.
Surgical Treatments
Hysteroscopic polypectomy or myomectomy: Polyp removal or fibroid removal.
Endometrial ablation: Removal of the uterine lining to decrease bleeding (not appropriate for women who desire future pregnancy).
Hysterectomy: Uterus removal during surgery, usually for extreme or non-responsive cases.
Preventive Measures
Although not all instances of AUB can be avoided, women can lower their risk by:
Keeping themselves at a healthy weight
Controlling chronic illnesses such as diabetes or thyroid disease
Regular checkups with the gynaecologist
Monitoring menstrual cycles to detect early changes
Role of Specialists in Controlling AUB
Consulting an expert gynaecologist ensures appropriate assessment and prompt treatment. The best gynaecologist in Panchkula can offer customised treatment strategies, ranging from medication to cutting-edge interventions, based on every woman's requirements. A quick search for the “best hospital for pregnancy near me” can give you a list of numerous top hospital facilities in Panchkula that also provide complete gynaecological care, ensuring care continuity through all phases of a woman's life.
The Cloudnine Advantage
Cloudnine established its success by providing innovative, woman-centred care. With experienced gynaecologists, the hospital offers expert care for menstrual disturbances, fertility issues, pregnancy, and complicated disorders such as abnormal uterine bleeding. Cloudnine integrates medical science with empathy, making sure that women not only get the right treatment but also feel cared for during their experience. Its state-of-the-art facilities and emphasis on holistic health make it a preferred choice for women in any phase of their lives.
Conclusion
Abnormal uterine bleeding is more than an interference with daily life; it can be a sign of deeper health issues that must be addressed. Early recognition of symptoms, consulting experts, and seeking proper treatment can make an enormous difference in quality of life.
Comments
Post a Comment