Abnormal Uterine Bleeding - Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Of It!
Abnormal uterine bleeding, formerly known as dysfunctional uterine bleeding, is vaginal bleeding that cannot be related to pelvic injuries, miscarriage, pregnancyor menstrual cycle.
Symptoms:
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The cycle changes and the bleeding become heavier.
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Bleeding lasts for 7 days or more.
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A tender or dry vagina.
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Abnormal mood swings.
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Hot flashes.
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Excessive body hair, especially on the back, chest and face.
Causes:
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The ovaries do not release an egg.
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Changes in the hormone level.
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Lower levels of oestrogen or progesterone.
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Thickening of the uterine wall in women above 40 years of age.
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Certain birth control pills can also cause abnormal bleeding.
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Some women also complain of abnormal bleeding in their first few weeks of pregnancy.
Diagnostic Procedure:
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The physician first checks the haemoglobin levels of the woman.
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An ultrasound of the pelvic region is done to check for physical injuries.
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Sometimes, an endometrial biopsy (the doctor checks a sample of the endometrium, which is the lining of the uterus) is also used to test the condition of the uterine lining.
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Hysteroscopy, using a hysteroscope, is used to test the insides of the uterus. A hysteroscope is a thin tube that is inserted into the vagina for the examination of cervix as well as the insides of the uterus.
Treatment:
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Younger women in the range of 18-23 years of age are usually treated using low doses of birth control pills.
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Oestrogen therapy is used.
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Painkillers such as ibuprofen are also prescribed before the beginning of the menstrual periods.
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The increase of ‘progesterone’ through IUD. An IUD (intrauterine device) is a contraceptive device that is inserted into the uterus.
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Cyclic hormone therapy is given to women above 40 years of age (Progesterone is administered in a periodic interval, usually about 4 weeks).
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Women considering pregnancy are recommended hormone therapy to increase ovulation.
- Anaemic women are given iron supplements.
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