Abnormal Bleeding

How do I know if I need abnormal bleeding treatments?

During your reproductive years, your period generally lasts about 2-7 days and occurs every 21 to 35 days. If you experience bleeding that doesn’t follow this pattern, it's not always cause for alarm.

For example, as you enter perimenopause, your menstrual cycle becomes less regular, and you can expect spotting and periods that are longer, shorter, or heavier than usual. 

Even so, some signs that you may need abnormal bleeding treatments include:

• Periods that last longer than normal
• Bleeding or spotting between periods
• Bleeding more frequently than every three weeks
• Bleeding or spotting after sex
• Needing to change a tampon/pad frequently 

Any bleeding after menopause is a concern and a good reason to contact Dr. Riftine. 

What causes abnormal bleeding?

There are many causes of abnormal bleeding. These include:

• Birth control side effects
• Uterine fibroids
• Endometriosis
• Polyps
• Ovulation disorders
• Miscarriage
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Uterine cancer

Dr. Riftine can identify the cause of your abnormal bleeding and recommend steps to address and regulate your cycle.

How is abnormal bleeding diagnosed?

During your consultation, Dr. Riftine asks you to describe your abnormal bleeding in detail. She typically performs a pelvic exam and a bedside ultrasound during your visit to check for any abnormalities.

Based on your specific symptoms and age, Dr. Riftine may recommend other tests, such as a hysteroscopy. A hysteroscopy enables Dr. Riftine to view your uterus with a tiny camera. Once she determines the source of your bleeding, she recommends a personalized treatment plan.

How is abnormal bleeding treated?

The underlying cause of your abnormal bleeding may not be harmful to your health and may have an easy treatment. With hormonal issues, Dr. Riftine may recommend taking birth control to alleviate the bleeding and regulate your cycle.

If hormonal birth control or other medication such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs does not prove effective, you may require surgery. Endometrial ablation is a procedure to eliminate the lining of the uterus and can reduce or stop abnormal bleeding. Endometrial ablation is only appropriate if you’re done having children due to the risk of pregnancy complications.

Other surgical options to address abnormal bleeding include:

• Myomectomy for fibroids
• Endometriosis lesion removal
• Hysterectomy

For expert abnormal bleeding treatment, call the office of Julia Riftine, MD, today or schedule your consultation online.