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Abnormal Bleeding

Board Certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist located in Burlington, MA

Abnormal Bleeding services offered in Burlington, MA

Abnormal uterine bleeding may be more than just a nuisance; it can indicate a gynecological issue or health problem requiring medical intervention. At Burlington OBGYN Associates Inc. in Burlington, Massachusetts, the board-certified obstetrics and gynecology specialists pinpoint the cause of abnormal bleeding to reduce your chance of complications and ease unpleasant symptoms. Schedule an evaluation at Burlington OBGYN Associates Inc. by phone or request one online today.

Abnormal Bleeding Q & A

What is abnormal bleeding?

Abnormal uterine bleeding, or abnormal menstrual periods, occurs when the bleeding is outside of a typical menstruation pattern. A normal menstrual flow usually lasts about five days and appears about every 21-35 days. Abnormal bleeding is a blood flow that is excessive, prolonged, very light, irregular, or nonexistent when it should be. 

Examples of abnormal bleeding include:

  • Heavy bleeding
  • Bleeding after sex
  • Bleeding between periods
  • Periods lasting seven days or longer
  • Inconsistent menstrual cycles
  • Painful periods

See a Burlington OBGYN Associates Inc. provider at the first sign of abnormal bleeding or if you’re unsure if your menstrual cycle and flow are normal.

What are the risk factors for abnormal bleeding?

The causes and risk factors associated with abnormal bleeding include:

  • Hormone imbalances
  • Perimenopause
  • Menopause 
  • Pregnancy
  • Thyroid diseases
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  • Excess body weight
  • Adenomyosis
  • Uterine cancer
  • Vaginal cancer
  • Ovarian cancer
  • Cervical cancer
  • Polyps
  • Fibroids
  • Endometriosis
  • Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
  • Certain medical conditions
  • Some medications 
  • Injuries
  • Infections 

About 10-35% of women worldwide may develop abnormal uterine bleeding. If you’ve undergone menopause or are pregnant and notice bleeding, see your provider right away. 

How does my provider diagnose the cause of abnormal bleeding?

To determine the cause of abnormal menstruation, your Burlington OBGYN Associates Inc. specialist reviews your typical menstrual cycle, symptoms, lifestyle, medications, and medical history. They check your vital signs, complete a physical exam and pelvic exam, and may suggest a Pap smear.

Your provider might recommend urine testing, blood tests, a pregnancy test, an ultrasound, a hysteroscopy, a biopsy, or other diagnostic tests to pinpoint possible causes and develop a treatment plan.

How is abnormal bleeding treated?

Your personalized treatment plan for abnormal bleeding may include:

  • Watchful waiting
  • Lifestyle changes
  • Hormone therapy
  • Medications
  • Birth control
  • Minimally invasive surgery

Your Burlington OBGYN Associates Inc. provider offers an array of minimally invasive gynecological surgeries if needed to treat an underlying cause of abnormal bleeding. 

You might be a candidate for endometrial ablation, hysterectomy, or the removal of abnormal tissues within your reproductive tract. Your provider follows up with you to ensure effective outcomes.

Schedule an appointment at Burlington OBGYN Associates Inc. by phone or request one online today to get treated for abnormal bleeding.