Uterine Bleeding

Uterine bleeding, also known as uterine hemorrhage or metrorrhagia, refers to any bleeding from the uterus that is not part of a normal menstrual period.

Causes

• Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels can cause irregular bleeding.
• Uterine fibroids: Non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can cause heavy or prolonged bleeding.
• Endometrial polyps: Growths on the lining of the uterus that can cause irregular bleeding.
• Adenomyosis: A condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows into the uterine walls, causing heavy bleeding and pain.
• Cancer: Uterine cancer or cervical cancer can cause abnormal bleeding.
• Pregnancy complications: Miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or placenta previa can cause uterine bleeding.
• Infections: Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or other infections can cause bleeding.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as blood thinners or hormone replacement therapy, can increase the risk of uterine bleeding.

Symptoms

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Irregular bleeding between periods
• Bleeding after menopause
• Pelvic pain or cramping
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue or weakness due to blood loss

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of uterine bleeding typically involves a combination of:

• Medical history: Reviewing the patient's menstrual and medical history.
• Physical exam: Performing a pelvic exam to check for any abnormalities.
• Imaging tests: Ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans to visualize the uterus and surrounding tissues.
• Endometrial biopsy: Removing a sample of tissue from the uterine lining for examination.
• Hysteroscopy: Inserting a scope into the uterus to visually examine the uterine cavity.

Treatment

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

• Hormonal therapies: Birth control pills or other hormone-regulating medications to manage bleeding.
• Surgical procedures: Removal of fibroids, polyps, or other growths, or a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) in severe cases.
• Medications: Tranexamic acid or other medications to reduce bleeding.
• Iron supplements: To treat anemia caused by heavy blood loss.

Complications

If left untreated, uterine bleeding can lead to:

• Anemia due to excessive blood loss
• Infection or sepsis if the bleeding is caused by an underlying infection
• Infertility or pregnancy complications if the underlying cause is related to reproductive health

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is uterine bleeding?
Uterine bleeding refers to vaginal bleeding that originates from the uterus.

What are common causes of uterine bleeding?
Common causes include hormonal changes, pregnancy, fibroids, polyps, and menstrual disorders.

Can uterine bleeding be a sign of cancer?
Possibly, as it can be associated with cervical, uterine, or ovarian cancer, but other factors are more common causes.

How is uterine bleeding diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves pelvic exam, ultrasound, and possibly endometrial biopsy or hysteroscopy.

What are symptoms of uterine bleeding?
Symptoms may include heavy or irregular vaginal bleeding, cramping, and fatigue.

Can uterine bleeding be treated with medication?
Possibly, as hormonal medications or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be used to manage symptoms.

Are there surgical options for treating uterine bleeding?
Yes, options include dilation and curettage (D&C), hysterectomy, or removal of fibroids or polyps.

Can lifestyle changes help manage uterine bleeding?
Possibly, as maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and managing stress may help alleviate symptoms.

When should I seek medical attention for uterine bleeding?
Seek immediate attention if bleeding is heavy, prolonged, or accompanied by severe pain, fever, or dizziness.

Can uterine bleeding affect fertility?
Possibly, as underlying causes such as fibroids or polyps may impact fertility, but this varies depending on the individual case.