Abnormal Bleeding

Menstrual cycles vary from person to person, but when bleeding becomes unpredictable, excessively heavy, or occurs between periods, it is considered abnormal. At Ogeechee OBGYN, with offices in Statesboro, Swainsboro, and Sylvania, Georgia, our compassionate team specializes in diagnosing and treating the underlying causes of abnormal uterine bleeding. We prioritize your comfort and long-term health, offering advanced diagnostic imaging and personalized treatment plans. If your period is disrupting your life, call the office or book an appointment online today.

What is abnormal bleeding? 

Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) refers to any vaginal bleeding that is different from a typical menstrual cycle. While a "normal" period typically lasts 3 to 7 days and occurs every 21 to 35 days, abnormal bleeding falls outside these parameters.

You may be experiencing abnormal bleeding if you:

• Bleed between your monthly periods.
• Bleed after sexual intercourse.
• Have a period that lasts longer than seven days.
• Experience extremely heavy flow (soaking through one or more pads or tampons every hour).
• Have a cycle shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days.
• Experience bleeding after you have already gone through menopause.

What causes abnormal bleeding? 

There are many reasons why your cycle may become irregular. The team at Ogeechee OBGYN works to identify the specific cause, which often includes:

• Hormonal Imbalances: Issues with estrogen and progesterone can cause the uterine lining to build up excessively.
• Uterine Fibroids: Noncancerous growths in the uterus that can cause heavy or prolonged bleeding.
• Polyps: Small growths on the lining of the uterus or cervix.
• Endometriosis: When tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus.
• Adenomyosis: When the uterine lining grows into the muscular wall of the uterus.
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A common condition that disrupts regular ovulation.
• Bleeding Disorders: Underlying conditions that affect the blood's ability to clot.

How is abnormal bleeding diagnosed?

To determine the cause of your symptoms, your provider at Ogeechee OBGYN performs a comprehensive exam. This begins with a review of your medical history and a discussion of your menstrual cycle patterns.

Diagnostic tools may include:

• Pelvic Exam: A physical assessment of your reproductive organs.
• Blood Tests: To check for anemia, hormonal imbalances, or thyroid issues.
• Ultrasound: An imaging test to visualize the uterus, ovaries, and pelvic structure.
• Endometrial Biopsy: Taking a small sample of the uterine lining for laboratory testing.
• Hysteroscopy: Using a thin, lighted tube to look inside the uterus.

How is abnormal bleeding treated?

Treatment depends entirely on the cause of the bleeding and whether you plan to have children in the future. Your provider may recommend:

• Hormonal Medications: Birth control pills, patches, or hormonal IUDs to regulate the cycle.
• Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): To reduce flow and cramping.
• Tranexamic Acid: A medication that helps blood clot during your period.
• GnRH Agonists: Medications that can temporarily shrink fibroids.
• Surgical Options: Procedures like endometrial ablation (to thin the uterine lining) or myomectomy (to remove fibroids).

Don’t let abnormal bleeding control your schedule or drain your energy. To find relief and get back to your life, contact Ogeechee OBGYN or book an appointment online today.