Vaginal bleeding, especially when you least expect it, can be incredibly scary. In fact, you may not even know the cause for it, resulting in even more fear. It’s time to pause, take some deep breaths, and know that answers are closer than ever before. The best vaginal bleeding specialist in PG County can help you take control of your feminine wellness for optimal women’s health! Here’s what you should know.
What Is Vaginal Bleeding, and When Is It Considered Abnormal?
Vaginal bleeding refers to the discharge of blood from the vagina. This can occur during various stages of a woman’s life. Menstrual bleeding is a natural part of the reproductive cycle. However, abnormal bleeding refers to when it deviates from the expected patterns.
It is considered abnormal when it occurs outside the normal menstrual cycle. For example, bleeding between periods (intermenstrual bleeding), after intercourse (postcoital bleeding), or after menopause. Also, excessive or prolonged bleeding, along with severe pain or clotting, are indicators of abnormal vaginal bleeding.
What Does a “Normal” Menstrual Cycle Look Like?
A normal menstrual cycle is a vital aspect of reproductive health. However, it can look different for everyone. It typically lasts between 21 to 35 days. However, variations can be considered normal for some women. The menstrual cycle consists of four phases, including menstruation, follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase.
Menstruation occurs during the first part of the cycle and involves the shedding of the uterine lining. The bleeding usually lasts around two to seven days and has an average blood loss of approximately 30 to 40 milliliters (mL).
The flow may vary in intensity. For example, it may start lighter and gradually become heavier before tapering off. Regular cycles with predictable patterns, minimal discomfort, and consistent flow are characteristic of a normal menstrual cycle and generally do not indicate abnormal bleeding.
What Causes Abnormal Bleeding?
There can be various causes, and identifying the underlying factors is crucial for effective management. Some of the reasons you’re experiencing abnormal bleeding may be benign, though it can indicate something more serious.
Hormonal imbalances are common culprits and can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or hormonal contraception can lead to irregular bleeding patterns.
Structural abnormalities within the reproductive system, such as fibroids (noncancerous growths in the uterus) or polyps (abnormal tissue growths), adenomyosis (endometrial tissue growing into the uterine muscle), or abnormalities in the cervix can also cause abnormal bleeding.
Infections, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), can contribute as well. Certain medications, such as blood thinners or hormonal therapies, may have side effects that result in abnormal bleeding.
In some cases, it may be indicative of more serious conditions, including endometriosis (the growth of uterine tissue outside the uterus) or cervical or uterine cancer.
How Is Vaginal Bleeding Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of vaginal bleeding requires a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional. The process usually involves a detailed medical history review and a thorough physical examination.
During the exam, the healthcare provider may perform a pelvic exam to assess the condition of the reproductive organs. Additional diagnostic tests may be recommended to accurately identify the underlying cause.
These tests can include blood tests to check hormone levels, a pelvic ultrasound to visualize the uterus and ovaries, hysteroscopy (insertion of a thin tube with a camera into the uterus) to examine the uterine cavity, or biopsy (removal of a small tissue sample for examination) to analyze abnormal tissue.
By combining the information gathered from the medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests, your vaginal bleeding specialist in PG County can make an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
What Can Be Done to Successfully Treat Your Condition?
The treatment of abnormal vaginal bleeding depends on the underlying cause and the individual’s specific circumstances.
- Hormonal imbalances can often be managed with oral contraceptives, hormone therapy, or other medications to regulate the menstrual cycle.
- In cases where structural abnormalities, such as fibroids or polyps, are identified, surgical intervention may be necessary.
- Procedures like a myomectomy (removal of fibroids) or hysteroscopic polypectomy (removal of polyps) can help address these issues.
- Endometrial ablation, which involves the removal or destruction of the uterine lining, may be recommended for women who do not wish to have more children.
- Infections or inflammations contributing to abnormal bleeding can be treated with appropriate antibiotics or other targeted therapies. In severe cases when conservative measures fail or there is a serious underlying condition, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be considered as a definitive treatment option.
The choice of treatment aims to address the root cause, alleviate symptoms, and restore normal menstrual patterns while prioritizing the individual’s health and reproductive goals. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable treatment approach based on the specific circumstances and needs of the individual.
Meet With a Vaginal Bleeding Specialist in PG County Today at Women’s HealthCare Specialist!
Women’s Health Care Specialists is here to help you take control of your health and find clarity in uncertain, even frightening, times! We offer an extensive range of procedures to accurately diagnose and address various health conditions, both simple and complex, at our judgment-free practice.
Call us at 301-812-3400 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Navita Modi and find the answers you’ve been searching for! We look forward to helping you achieve peace of mind and overall wellness.
