Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

Abnormal Uterine Bleeding services offered in Chinatown and Lower Manhattan, New York, Brooklyn, Flushing and Syosset, NY

Menstrual cycles can vary from person to person and may change throughout different stages of life. However, bleeding that is unusually heavy, prolonged, frequent, irregular, or occurs between periods should not be ignored.

The experienced team at Bayard Street Obstetrics & Gynecology evaluates and treats abnormal uterine bleeding at convenient locations in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and Long Island. Call the office nearest you or request an appointment online to receive a personalized evaluation.

What is abnormal uterine bleeding?

Abnormal uterine bleeding is bleeding that differs from your usual menstrual pattern in its timing, frequency, duration, or amount.

Signs may include:

Heavy or prolonged periods
Bleeding or spotting between periods
Bleeding after intercourse
Irregular or unpredictable periods
Passing large blood clots
Any bleeding after menopause

Contact your obstetric provider for bleeding during pregnancy. Seek urgent care for very heavy bleeding accompanied by dizziness, fainting, chest pain, shortness of breath, or severe pelvic pain.

What causes abnormal uterine bleeding?

Possible causes include:

Hormonal or ovulation changes
Polycystic ovary syndrome
Perimenopause or thyroid disorders
Uterine fibroids, polyps, or adenomyosis
Pregnancy-related conditions
Pelvic or sexually transmitted infections
Hormonal contraception or certain medications
Bleeding disorders
Changes involving the uterine lining
Less commonly, cervical or uterine cancer

Because abnormal bleeding has many possible causes, an evaluation is important when symptoms are heavy, persistent, or occur after menopause.

How is abnormal bleeding evaluated?

Your provider reviews your menstrual pattern, symptoms, medications, medical history, and possibility of pregnancy.

Testing may include:

A physical or pelvic examination
Pregnancy testing
Bloodwork
Infection testing
Pelvic or transvaginal ultrasound
Endometrial sampling
Sonohysterography or hysteroscopy

Testing is individualized according to your age, symptoms, and risk factors.

How is abnormal uterine bleeding treated?

Treatment depends on the underlying cause, severity of the bleeding, and your future pregnancy goals.

Options may include:

Hormonal birth control or progestin therapy
A hormonal intrauterine device
Tranexamic acid
Anti-inflammatory medication
Antibiotics for an infection
Removal of a uterine polyp or fibroid
Endometrial ablation for selected patients who have completed childbearing
Fibroid surgery or hysterectomy in selected cases

Your provider will explain the benefits, risks, and alternatives before recommending treatment.

Schedule an abnormal bleeding evaluation

Heavy, irregular, or unexpected bleeding should not be ignored.

Call Bayard Street Obstetrics & Gynecology or request an appointment online to schedule an abnormal uterine bleeding evaluation.

Abnormal Uterine Bleeding