Intermenstrual Bleeding

Intermenstrual bleeding, also known as metrorrhagia, refers to vaginal bleeding that occurs between menstrual periods. This type of bleeding is abnormal and can be caused by a variety of factors.

Causes

• Hormonal Imbalance: Changes in hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone, can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle and lead to intermenstrual bleeding.
• Uterine Fibroids: Non-cancerous growths in the uterus can cause irregular bleeding, including intermenstrual bleeding.
• Endometrial Hyperplasia: A condition where the lining of the uterus becomes too thick, leading to abnormal bleeding.
• Cervical Polyps: Growths on the cervix can cause irregular bleeding, including intermenstrual bleeding.
• Infections: Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or other infections can cause inflammation and lead to abnormal bleeding.
• Cancer: In rare cases, intermenstrual bleeding can be a symptom of cervical, uterine, or ovarian cancer.
• Contraceptives: Certain types of birth control, such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) or hormonal contraceptives, can cause irregular bleeding.
• Other Medical Conditions: Thyroid disorders, diabetes, and other medical conditions can also contribute to intermenstrual bleeding.

Symptoms

In addition to bleeding between periods, women may experience other symptoms such as:

• Pelvic pain or cramping
• Abnormal vaginal discharge
• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Spotting or light bleeding after sex

Diagnosis

To diagnose the cause of intermenstrual bleeding, a healthcare provider may perform:

• Pelvic exam
• Pap test
• Ultrasound or other imaging tests
• Endometrial biopsy
• Hormone level tests

Treatment

Treatment for intermenstrual bleeding depends on the underlying cause and may include:

• Hormonal therapies to regulate menstrual cycles
• Medications to reduce bleeding or pain
• Surgical procedures to remove fibroids, polyps, or other growths
• Antibiotics to treat infections
• Cancer treatment if cancer is diagnosed

When to Seek Medical Attention

Women should seek medical attention if they experience:

• Heavy or prolonged bleeding
• Severe pain or cramping
• Fever or chills
• Vaginal discharge with a foul odor
• Bleeding after sex