Any bleeding outside your regular menstrual cycle is abnormal and warrants a checkup with your OB/GYN. At Midwest Women Obstetrician/Gynecologist Ltd in Downers Grove, Illinois, the team of expert gynecologists provides comprehensive care for abnormal bleeding, whether you experience heavy periods or mid-cycle spotting. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about abnormal bleeding.

What is abnormal bleeding?

Abnormal uterine bleeding is any type of unusual bleeding that occurs during or outside menstruation. Women with abnormal bleeding typically experience heavy bleeding (menorrhagia), menstrual bleeding that lasts longer than usual, or spotting between periods. Some women only experience one sign of abnormal bleeding, while others encounter multiple.

What are the signs of abnormal bleeding?

The symptoms of abnormal bleeding can vary, but common signs include:

• Menstrual bleeding that lasts for longer than seven days
• Heavy bleeding that soaks through a pad or tampon in one hour or less
• Bleeding after or during intercourse
• Irregular menstrual cycle

While abnormal uterine bleeding is often temporary, prolonged symptoms can signal an underlying condition. Seeking professional care from one of the expert gynecologists at Midwest Women OB/GYN Ltd ensures you receive prompt treatment for abnormal bleeding.

What causes abnormal bleeding?

Many underlying conditions can cause abnormal bleeding, including:

Fibroids

Fibroids are benign (noncancerous) tumors that develop in the uterus. While most fibroids cause no symptoms, they can cause abnormal bleeding, pain, and infertility as they grow. Some women have multiple fibroids that require removal.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissue that mimics the endometrial lining thickens but doesn’t shed. Instead, the tissue adheres to surrounding organs, like the ovaries and fallopian tubes, causing pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, or irregular bleeding.

Sexually transmitted disease (STD)

STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can cause heavy menstrual bleeding and bleeding between periods.

Birth control

Certain types of birth control, particularly intrauterine devices (IUDs), can cause spotting between periods, heavy menstrual flows, and even missed periods.

What are the treatments for abnormal bleeding?

The right treatments for you depend on the cause of your abnormal bleeding. The team at Midwest Women OB/GYN Ltd performs a comprehensive physical exam, medical history review, ultrasounds, and blood work before diagnosing your condition. Once they have a diagnosis, the team may recommend:

• Hormonal birth control
• Medication
• Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists
• Minimally invasive surgery
• Da Vinci® surgery with robotics assistance
• Endometrial ablation

Call Midwest Women OB/GYN Ltd today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about abnormal bleeding.