What’s the Definition of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding?
If you’ve been experiencing heavy, irregular or between-period bleeding, those symptoms point to abnormal uterine bleeding. This condition is often manageable and treatable through one of several abnormal uterine bleeding treatments, including hysteroscopy.
Dr. Felix Cohen and his team of specialists at Hysteroscopy Center of New York specialize in complex uterine issues. With offices in Midtown Manhattan, Columbus Circle and Queens, they provide expert abnormal uterine bleeding treatments.
What Causes Abnormal Uterine Bleeding?
If your period lasts longer than usual and is accompanied by heavy bleeding that requires changing pads or tampons every hour for two consecutive hours, or if you pass large blood clots, these may be signs of abnormal uterine bleeding. Common causes of this condition include:
- Endometrial polyps
- Non-cancerous fibroids
- Early pregnancy
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- A thyroid disorder
Before determining the best possible abnormal uterine bleeding treatment, an experienced board-certified gynecologist needs to first reach a diagnosis. Dr. Cohen adds: “At your consultation, tell me your concerns, symptoms and situation. While abnormal uterine bleeding is common, it’s uncomfortable and sometimes embarrassing, so you should be concerned. I can help you if you experience bleeding between periods or postmenopausal bleeding.”
How Is Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Diagnosed?
During your consultation, Dr. Cohen and his staff review your medical history in detail and ask about the symptoms you’re experiencing. They may ask you to describe the amount of bleeding, whether it recurs or the heaviness of the flow. At this point, list any current medications, hormone therapy and past medical conditions.
Your gynecologist determines the next steps. After your evaluation, he may order or perform tests to determine the best abnormal uterine bleeding treatment for you, which may include:
- A pregnancy test if heavy bleeding is occurring during your reproductive years
- A pelvic exam or Pap smear to check for infections or abnormalities affecting your reproductive organs
- Blood tests to check hormone levels and thyroid functions
- An ultrasound to get a clear picture of your uterus, blood vessels or other organs
- An endometrial biopsy to check for any uterine abnormalities or other underlying conditions
“At Hysteroscopy Center of New York, we care about women experiencing discomfort and have to change a pad or tampon every hour or so,” says Dr. Cohen. “It’s tiring and frustrating having to deal with it every month. That’s why we offer a thorough examination: to find the source of your discomfort and resolve it.”
What’s the Best Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Treatment?
After diagnosing the reason behind your abnormal bleeding symptoms, the best abnormal uterine bleeding treatment for you involves one of three options. At Hysteroscopy Center of New York, your heavy menstrual bleeding treatment may include performing a:
- See-and-treat approachHysteroscopy. A hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure. Your NYC doctor inserts a thin, lighted tube called a hysteroscope into your uterus to check for fibroids or polyps that may be causing the heavy bleeding. When appropriate, Dr. Cohen uses a see-and-treat approach to identify and remove the growths in the same procedure.
- A sonohysterogramSonohysterogram. Unlike a hysteroscopy, a sonohysterogram doesn’t include removing any abnormalities present. During the procedure, Dr. Cohen injects sterile saline into your uterus, expanding it for clear, real-time images to diagnose the structural issues. The procedure is often performed right after your menstrual bleeding stops, but before ovulation.
- Endometrial ablationEndometrial ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that destroys your uterine lining, the endometrium, by radiofrequency emission for 60 to 120 seconds. Dr. Cohen strongly advises against performing endometrial ablation if you plan on getting pregnant, because it may irreversibly prevent future pregnancies.
When performing an abnormal uterine bleeding treatment, Dr. Cohen puts you under local or general anesthesia, depending on your comfort level. While the pain’s manageable for some, many women prefer to be unconscious for the procedure.
Following an in-office hysteroscopy procedure, your recovery period is usually quick, with most women returning to everyday activities within a day or two. You can manage any cramping or minimal discomfort with over-the-counter pain medications. Your NYC gynecologist provides post-procedure instructions before any treatment, so you can prepare appropriately, such as having someone stay with you for the first 24 hours if you had general anesthesia.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
Is there a difference between acute abnormal uterine bleeding and chronic bleeding?
Yes, as the names suggest. Acute abnormal uterine bleeding is a sudden bleeding episode that requires immediate medical attention to determine the underlying cause, while chronic bleeding is when an abnormal menstrual period has been present during most of the past six months.
Am I at risk for abnormal uterine bleeding?
Your risk is higher if you’re an adolescent or when you’re approaching menopause. Additionally, you may be at a higher risk if you take certain medications or have thyroid issues or uterine fibroids. Clinical studies suggest that a third of women have experienced abnormal uterine bleeding.
What is a normal menstrual cycle?
A healthy menstrual cycle counts from the first day you start your period to the first day of the next menstrual cycle. A normal menstrual cycle typically lasts 21 to 35 days, with bleeding occurring between three to seven days. Anything bleeding for more than seven consecutive days counts as abnormal uterine bleeding. Seek a resolution with an experienced gynecologist like Dr. Cohen at Hysteroscopy Center of New York.
Should I have a complete blood count if I experience irregular and heavy menstrual bleeding?
Often, your NYC gynecologist orders a complete blood count (CBC) to rule out the possibility of anemia or a vaginal infection. Besides a CBC, you may need other tests, including a hysteroscopy, sonohysterogram or ultrasound exam, as these frequently administered tests can determine the cause of your abnormal uterine bleeding.
Is there an age at which abnormal uterine bleeding is more common?
Yes. Abnormal vaginal bleeding is more prominent at the beginning and near the end of a woman’s reproductive years. Adolescents from nine to 14 are affected by abnormal uterine bleeding because their hormonal cycle is still maturing and developing. Also, women approaching menopause often experience hormonal fluctuations that can lead to heavy periods, irregular bleeding, skipped cycles or changes in menstrual flow. While abnormal uterine bleeding is normal during these years, you should still seek medical attention to make sure you aren’t suffering from a preventable condition.
Is there a cure for heavy menstrual periods?
Yes. Heavy vaginal bleeding doesn’t have to affect your everyday life. Treatments range from targeted medications to surgical procedures to eliminate or control your bleeding. Medications are a non-invasive way to regulate your menstrual cycle, whereas surgical procedures may destroy your uterine lining to stop your menstrual cycle. The latter should only be done after you’ve decided against having more children.
Where Should I Seek Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Treatment in New York City?
Many women experience abnormal uterine bleeding. If you suffer from heavy menstrual bleeding, talk openly about it with a gynecologist experienced in treating uterine problems. The sooner you explain your problem, the sooner your expert physician in NYC can diagnose and treat the condition causing it.
Don’t ignore symptoms like heavy or irregular bleeding. Whether you’re experiencing endometrial bleeding or prolonged menstrual cycles, look for the best possible abnormal uterine bleeding treatment. Schedule a consultation at Hysteroscopy Center of New York at one of its three locations today. The Center also accommodates women traveling in from Canada.