What Could Be Causing Your Abnormal Bleeding?

For most women, menstrual bleeding occurs on a regular schedule, but what happens when abnormal bleeding catches you off guard? There are many causes of abnormal bleeding, and it’s almost impossible to determine the reason for your bleeding without an exam. 

If you have abnormal bleeding, Dr. Essam Taymour encourages you to visit us here at Gynecology and Obstetrics Medical Group in Long Beach, California. Here, you can learn more about the potential causes of your abnormal bleeding.

Is your bleeding abnormal?

Menometrorrhagia, or abnormal bleeding, refers to vaginal bleeding that happens outside of your typical menstrual cycle. Normal menstrual flow lasts approximately five days and starts every 21 to 35 days. Women who track their periods on apps can easily identify trends, such as average cycle length and the average number of bleeding days. 

Abnormal bleeding shouldn’t be confused with menorrhagia, which is heavy menstrual bleeding. These are two different terms. 

You might have abnormal bleeding if:

• You bleed in between periods (sooner than every 21-35 days)
• You spot between periods
• You experience spotting or bleeding during pregnancy 
• Your periods are erratic 

Note: Postpartum bleeding is normal. If you’ve just had a baby, you can bleed for up to six weeks. This isn’t your menstrual period 一 it’s called lochia 一 and if it doesn’t ease up about 6-8 weeks after birth, let your doctor know. 

10 potential causes of abnormal bleeding

Hormonal imbalances are one of the main culprits for abnormal bleeding, especially when a female is experiencing her first few 一 or her last few 一 periods. Some hormonal birth control can cause breakthrough bleeding in up to 50% of women during their first six months on a combination pill. 

Potential causes of abnormal bleeding include:

1. Polyps
2. Uterine fibroids
3. Endometriosis
4. Blood clotting disorders, such as Von Willebrand Disease
5. Side effects of certain medication
6. Vaginal infections
7. Some forms of contraception
8. Uterine or cervical cancer
9. Perimenopause
10. Vaginal trauma

Because some of these causes of abnormal bleeding can be serious, don’t put off an exam. Pregnancy complications, such as placenta previa and ectopic pregnancy, can also contribute to abnormal bleeding. Expectant mothers should report any bleeding or spotting immediately. 

In addition to bleeding, you might experience cramping, abdominal pain, backaches, and fatigue. These symptoms may vary depending on the underlying cause of your abnormal bleeding.

What can you do about abnormal bleeding?

Treating abnormal bleeding depends on what’s causing it. For example, if a hormonal imbalance is contributing to breakthrough bleeding, you might benefit from hormone replacement therapy. 

But before you can embark on any treatment plan, Dr. Taymour conducts an exam, reviews your symptoms, and orders any necessary bloodwork to pinpoint the ultimate source of your bleeding.

Potential treatments include:

• Minimally invasive procedures to remove polyps or fibroids
• Medications, such as taking ibuprofen in the days leading up to your menstrual cycle
• Bed rest (in the case of placenta previa)
• Taking iron supplements
• Starting or switching birth control, such as the pill or an intrauterine device (IUD)
• D&C (dilation and curettage)

Abnormal bleeding isn’t just a nuisance, and heavy blood flow can contribute to anemia. If you experience abnormal bleeding with or without pain, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment. You can reach us at 562-247-3038 or through our online portal.