Metrorrhagia

Metrorrhagia is a medical term that refers to irregular uterine bleeding, specifically bleeding that occurs between menstrual periods or at irregular intervals.

Definition and Causes

Metrorrhagia is characterized by abnormal uterine bleeding that does not follow a regular pattern. The causes of metrorrhagia can be varied and may include:

• Hormonal imbalances, such as changes in estrogen and progesterone levels
• Uterine fibroids or polyps
• Endometrial hyperplasia (thickening of the uterine lining)
• Cervical or uterine cancer
• Infections, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Medications, such as hormonal birth control or anticoagulants
• Thyroid disorders
• Pituitary gland disorders

Symptoms

The symptoms of metrorrhagia may include:

• Irregular or unpredictable bleeding between menstrual periods
• Bleeding that is heavier or lighter than usual
• Bleeding that lasts for an extended period
• Pelvic pain or cramping
• Abdominal tenderness

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of metrorrhagia typically involves a combination of:

• Medical history and physical examination
• Pelvic exam
• Pap test
• Ultrasound or other imaging tests to evaluate the uterus and ovaries
• Endometrial biopsy to rule out cancer or other abnormalities
• Hormone level testing to check for hormonal imbalances

Treatment

The treatment of metrorrhagia depends on the underlying cause and may include:

• Hormonal therapies, such as birth control pills or progesterone
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce bleeding and pain
• Tranexamic acid to reduce heavy bleeding
• Surgical procedures, such as dilation and curettage (D&C) or hysterectomy, in some cases

Complications

If left untreated, metrorrhagia can lead to complications such as:

• Anemia due to heavy bleeding
• Iron deficiency
• Pelvic pain and discomfort
• Emotional distress and anxiety