It is normal for women to bleed every month and it’s a natural occurring phenomenon. Uterus is the organ which plays a crucial role in reproductive health. It is essential to distinguish between normal and abnormal bleeding. Any deviation from your normal monthly periods is abnormal. Abnormal uterine bleeding is a condition where bleeding lasts longer than usual. This strikes every woman at some point of life.
This can happen during any time of the month. Sometimes you may bleed at irregular times too. However, there are ways to know from symptoms if you have abnormal uterine bleeding.
The most prominent signs of abnormal uterine bleeding are as follows. It becomes essential for every woman to know these signs;
Vaginal bleeding- When there is a sudden vaginal bleeding it is one of the most potent symptoms of Uterine bleeding.
Heavy periods- In Abnormal uterine bleeding it becomes heavy. This can be evaluated with number of pads used in one day.
Periods last longer- It is normal for periods to last for 3-5 days. In this condition it can stretch up to 7 days or more.
Pain- Another way to know that you have abnormal uterine bleeding is pain. If pain in periods is severe, it’s a sign that something is wrong. As normal, cramps would go away in a few days.
It is best to consult a specialist if a person is experiencing these signs. The gynecologist would perform certain tests to diagnose if you really suffer from abnormal uterine bleeding.
There is no need to be afraid of these tests as these are normal blood tests and ultrasound like:
Early Blood test- Our blood is a good indicator of ailments. With the blood test doctor can determine if blood count. And also prevent loss of blood associated with abnormal uterine bleeding.
Ultrasound- A gynaecologist will usually perform ultrasound on the pelvic. This showcases any problem you might be having in your uterus and ovaries.
Hysteroscopy and endometrial biopsy- One may be asked to undergo hysteroscopy and endometrial biopsy to find out the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding- hormonal problems, polyps, precancerous and cancerous changes in the uterine lining.
Once it has been determined that one has abnormal uterine bleeding. There are many lines for treatment. All is dependent on the cause of bleeding. A doctor can suggest these treatments like;
Polypectomy - which can be done in the same sitting with hysteroscope
Levonorgestral IUCD / Mirena - This is inserted in the uterus. It aids in controlling the abnormal bleeding by making the endometrial lining thin.
Birth control pill- A doctor may recommend you to take a birth control pill. As it has hormones which curbs uterine lining from thickening. This in-turn stops the excessive bleeding in periods.
Endometrial ablation- This is the last line of treatment. Here surgical method is used to destroy the thickened uterus lining.
It is best to consult the doctor at earliest to overcome this ailment. In future it will help in giving you a normal uterus.