Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
Alameda OB/GYN Olivia Butt, MD
Obstetrics & Gynecology located in Alameda, CA
You might assume your periods are normal because most women complain (and rightly so!) about their menstrual bleeding. But if you have extremely heavy or long periods or bleed between them, you could be experiencing abnormal uterine bleeding. And fortunately, Olivia Butt, MD, can offer you treatment options. To learn more, call Alameda OB/GYN or book your appointment at her Alameda, California office online.
Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Q & A What is abnormal uterine bleeding?
Each woman’s period is different. That said, there are some key characteristics of abnormal uterine bleeding or blood flow that aren’t normal for a menstrual cycle. Some of these symptoms include:
- Bleeding for more than seven days
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Bleeding between periods
- Painful menstrual cycles
- Heavy blood flow, i.e., blood flow that soaks a tampon or pad in around an hour
What causes abnormal uterine bleeding?
There is no single cause for abnormal uterine bleeding. Here are a few of the most common:
Polyps
These overgrowths in the lining of your uterus or on your cervix can cause excessive bleeding. But don’t worry; they’re benign and treatable.
Perimenopause/Postmenopause
When you’re entering or leaving menopause, your changing hormone levels can cause abnormal uterine bleeding.
Endometriosis
Your endometrium is a tissue that’s supposed to grow inside your uterus, lining it. It breaks down and bleeds during your menstrual cycle. When you have endometriosis, however, the endometrium grows outside your uterus. When this endometrium breaks down outside your uterus, it can be painful and cause excessive bleeding.
Is there a treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding?
Absolutely! In fact, Dr. Butt has a range of treatment options that she makes available to her patients. After diagnosing the cause of your bleeding, she can start a treatment plan.
This may include, for example, something as simple as hormonal birth control or something more involved like polyp resectioning and management, during which Dr. Butt removes the polyps that are causing your abnormal blood flow. She also offers endometrial ablation. During this treatment, she destroys the endometrium. This procedure can be performed with long, thin tools inserted through the vagina, so no incision is needed.
In short, if you have abnormal uterine bleeding, you have a number of options you can explore with Dr. Butt. She believes that no patient should have to suffer through long, heavy, or irregular periods. She will work with you to develop a treatment plan that delivers the best results while keeping you completely comfortable.
If you think you may be suffering from abnormal uterine bleeding, don’t hesitate to contact Alameda OB/GYN or schedule your appointment online.
