Abnormal uterine bleeding including heavy or irregular periods can have several causes, and getting the right treatment is the key to relieving symptoms. At his practice in Burbank, CA, Dr. Jose Medrano offers state-of-the-art testing and treatment options to help women control abnormal bleeding and enjoy better health.
Abnormal uterine bleeding includes bleeding that deviates from a normal menstrual period, including:
All of these issues can have different causes, including:
Diagnosis begins with a review of the patient’s symptoms and medical history, followed by a physical exam. Depending on the symptoms, blood tests, urinalysis, ultrasound or other evaluations or tests may be ordered, and a pelvic exam and Pap test will be performed. Additional exams may also be performed to evaluate the vaginal canal, uterus or fallopian tubes.
Menorrhagia is relatively common among women approaching menopause. Hormonal fluctuations during that time can cause the uterine lining to thicken, and menstrual flow can be much heavier than normal. In women with menorrhagia, tampons alone typically are not enough to control blood flow, and most women will need to change sanitary napkins very frequently throughout the day and even during the night. Fortunately, there are outpatient procedures that can be used to treat menorrhagia to help women return to their normal lives.
The treatment for abnormal bleeding will depend on the underlying cause. For menorrhagia, treatments are available to remove the uterine lining so symptoms are relieved. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help manage many causes of abnormal bleeding, and minimally-invasive procedures are available to treat endometriosis and fibroids. In cases of severe bleeding that don’t respond to more conservative approaches, hysterectomy may be an option. Other causes, like thyroid disease, can be treated with medications. Each treatment plan will be customized based on the patient’s needs and the underlying cause.