Abnormal Bleeding

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

Every woman’s menstrual cycle is different, and your cycle may change over time. Many women experience abnormal bleeding, but you may wonder when is vaginal bleeding considered abnormal. The team at Bayard Street Obstetrics & Gynecology, which has locations in Lower Manhattan, Sunset Park in Brooklyn, and Flushing, Queens, specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of abnormal bleeding. To schedule an appointment, call the nearest office or request an appointment online today.

What is abnormal menstrual bleeding?

Abnormal menstrual bleeding is common in women and means many different things. To understand abnormal vaginal bleeding, it’s important to know what’s normal.

A normal menstrual cycle runs between 28 to 37 days and includes four to eight days of bleeding.

Abnormal vaginal bleeding includes:

Bleeding in-between your period
Bleeding longer than eight days
A menstrual cycle that’s longer than 38 days or shorter than 26 days
Bleeding after menopause
Bleeding during pregnancy
Heavy menstrual bleeding
Irregular periods

Though abnormal vaginal bleeding is common, many women don’t seek help for it. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, your Bayard Street Obstetrics & Gynecology provider can provide the answers you need.

What causes abnormal bleeding?

You may develop abnormal vaginal bleeding from any number of causes. Some causes are more serious than others, which is why you should consult with Bayard Street Obstetrics & Gynecology to get the right diagnosis and treatment.

Common causes of abnormal vaginal bleeding include:

Uterine fibroids or polyps
Ovarian cysts
Problems with ovulation
Ectopic pregnancy
Miscarriage
Uterine or cervical cancer
Hormonal changes
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
Endometriosis
Bleeding disorder

You can develop abnormal bleeding at any age. However, it’s very common when you first start to menstruate. Abnormal bleeding is also common in women during perimenopause, which is the transitional period before you reach menopause.

What happens during an abnormal bleeding evaluation?

When you visit Bayard Street Obstetrics & Gynecology with concerns about abnormal bleeding, he conducts a comprehensive evaluation to find the root cause of your gynecological concern. During your exam, he asks detailed questions about your menstrual cycle and the types of symptoms you experience.

He reviews your medical, gynecological, and family history and performs a physical and pelvic exam. To confirm or rule out a diagnosis, your provider may request diagnostic tests, such as blood work, testing for sexually transmitted diseases, or an ultrasound.

How is abnormal bleeding treated?

Treatment for abnormal bleeding may depend on the underlying cause. However, Bayard Street Obstetrics & Gynecology first takes a conservative approach, which may include medications such as:

Hormonal birth control to regulate your menstrual cycle
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) for uterine fibroids
Tranexamic acid to reduce heavy bleeding
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to alleviate other symptoms
Antibiotics to treat an infection

If medications fail to improve your abnormal bleeding, your OB-GYN may recommend surgical intervention to address the underlying cause of your bleeding problem, like the removal of fibroids. Endometrial ablation to stop heavy bleeding is also a treatment option.

For expert care for your abnormal bleeding, call Bayard Street Obstetrics & Gynecology or request an appointment online today.