Before menopause, most women are accustomed to predictable menstrual cycles, so when you experience bleeding that is different from your normal period, it’s understandable to feel concerned. In some cases out of the ordinary bleeding is temporary and harmless, but it’s wise to seek evaluation from a healthcare professional if dysfunctional bleeding occurs for three consecutive cycles or more.
The providers at Ideal Gynecology are dedicated to providing exceptional women’s healthcare, helping women navigate all phases of life. Led by our board-certified gynecologist Lillian Schapiro, MD, FACOG, our team of board-certified women’s health nurse practitioners, and board-certified women’s health physician assistant care for patients throughout the Atlanta Metropolitan community. If you’re having any bleeding irregularities, stop in for a visit, and we’ll assist you in getting answers.
Abnormal uterine bleeding is an umbrella term that refers to any uterine bleeding that occurs outside your normal menstrual pattern. This includes bleeding during pregnancy and sudden bleeding during menopause.
Dysfunctional uterine bleeding (DUB) is a term we use to describe bleeding that has no identifiable structural cause, such as uterine polyps. In many cases, dysfunctional uterine bleeding is the result of an underlying hormonal issue.
Since DUB is a subset of abnormal uterine bleeding, you’ll first experience uterine bleeding that is out of the ordinary for you. Symptoms vary from woman to woman, but here are some general clues that you’re dealing with abnormal bleeding:
If you have any of these symptoms, we’ll conduct an evaluation to see what’s going on.
Keep in mind that bleeding after you’ve already reached menopause is always considered abnormal, and you should schedule a visit with us right away.
Anytime you have an unexplained change in your menstrual cycle that persists for three or more cycles, it’s wise to come in to see us. Our team will check for structural issues such as fibroids, polyps, or endometrial hyperplasia.
If we find no structural abnormalities, you may receive a diagnosis of dysfunctional uterine bleeding. This is a diagnosis of exclusion once we’ve ruled out structural issues. Don’t feel overly concerned if you receive this diagnosis. We can investigate further to try to get to the bottom of your irregular bleeding.
Further evaluation may include blood tests to check levels of certain hormones, such as your thyroid hormones. A thyroid disorder such as hypothyroidism (too little hormone) is a common cause of abnormal bleeding.
We’ll take a thorough medical history and ask some questions about your lifestyle. Even if we don’t find a cause, there are treatment options to help get your menstrual cycle regulated again.
Hormonal imbalance is the most common cause of dysfunctional uterine bleeding. Your hormones govern your menstrual cycle, and things can go awry if hormones such as estrogen and progesterone fall out of balance.
This can cause issues such as the uterine lining becoming too thick, which can lead to heavy periods. Other hormonal issues can cause you to have what seems like two periods in one month.
Dysfunctional uterine bleeding is more common during periods of major hormonal shifts, such as during perimenopause, which are the years leading up to menopause, as well as during adolescence.
Treatment for DUB depends on various factors, such as whether we find a cause, such as a hormonal issue. Treating the underlying cause often restores menstrual regularity. If no obvious cause is found, therapy with progesterone, IUDs, patches, or birth control pills often improves symptoms.
In more severe cases, we may recommend surgical options like endometrial ablation. We’ll address one thing at a time and ensure that you understand each step and are in control of making informed decisions about your care.
If you’re experiencing irregular or heavy bleeding, schedule a visit with us at Ideal Gynecology. Our team is ready to help you navigate your symptoms and find a solution that works best for you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment, and together, let’s get things back on track!
