Bleeding that occurs between periods, is extremely heavy or lasts for more than a week at a time is abnormal, explains the Mayo Clinic. Although not all abnormal bleeding is dangerous, it sometimes indicates serious medical and gynecological conditions. Therefore, women should always talk to a doctor to determine the specific cause of the abnormal bleeding.
Causes
Abnormal menstrual bleeding has many possible causes, explains the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Hormonal fluctuations, ovulation, problems with birth control, pregnancy, miscarriage, infection, fibroids, polyps, problems with blood clotting and cancer of the uterus, cervix or vagina may cause abnormal bleeding. In addition, chronic medical conditions such as thyroid problems and diabetes could also be responsible.
Diagnosis
Doctors ask about past or present illnesses, use of medications, use of birth control, weight, eating habits, exercises habits and stress levels when trying to determine the cause of abnormal menstrual bleeding. A physical exam and blood test is also necessary. If a woman is having other symptoms, other tests may also be needed. These might include an ultrasound, endometrial biopsy, sonohysterography, hysteroscopy, hysterosalpingography, laparoscopy or a dilation and curettage procedure, explains the ACOG.
Considerations
Keeping a menstrual journal can provide a valuable record for women and their doctors about their abnormal menstrual bleeding. These journals should include the dates the bleeding began and stopped, the flow and color of the bleeding and any other symptoms. Doctors can use a menstrual diary to help determine the cause of the abnormal bleeding.
Treatment
Treatment for abnormal menstrual bleeding depends on the cause of the bleeding, explains the American Academy of Family Physicians. Doctors might prescribe hormone therapy or medications or may wait to see if the bleeding stops on its own. In some cases, surgery might be necessary. Women should discuss all the options and any concerns they may have with a doctor before receiving treatment.
Misconceptions
Abnormal menstrual bleeding is not always a cause for concern. Abnormal bleeding from birth control, for example, will often go away on its own without intervention within the first four months of taking the medication. Girls who have just begun menstruating may also experience abnormal menstrual bleeding for a few years until their hormones stabilize.
Warning
Although women should report all abnormal menstrual bleeding to a doctor, some situations require immediate medical attention. Women who have severe pain, fever or soak through more than a pad or tampon each hour for two to three hours should call a doctor immediately.
