We invite you to join us for an informational presentation about the latest advances in treatment options for uterine fibroids.
Learn More(opens in a new tab)
Uterine bleeding is always a normal part of your period. However, you know your body best - if your bleeding has become abnormal or significantly heavier, it may be time to schedule an appointment and examine the cause.
At the Advanced Women's Health Institute, Dr. Moore has the expertise to provide you with an accurate diagnosis for your abnormal uterine bleeding. We’ll work closely with you to develop a treatment plan that accounts for your comfort level and addresses your needs and goals.
If you need relief from uterine bleeding, schedule an appointment with us today.
Most of the time abnormal bleeding is caused by ovarian dysfunction, especially in adolescents and women as they approach menopause. The uterine lining is stimulated by ovarian estrogen and progesterone. Fluctuations of these hormones will disrupt the normal process and can cause prolonged, irregular, or heavy bleeding.
However, approximately one third of women over 35 years of age with abnormal bleeding have uterine pathology such as:
Submucosal fibroids arise close to the uterine cavity and cause abnormal bleeding at smaller sizes than fibroids that occur further from the cavity.
Some bleeding problems are due to blood and vascular abnormalities. Young women with heavy periods may have a problem with her clotting factors or platelets. If the internal vascular regulatory mechanisms of the uterus do not function properly then the small arteries that supply the uterine lining may not properly constrict at the time of the menstrual flow and lead to heavier periods.
“Abnormal” bleeding means different things to different women, and no one knows your regular cycle better than you. However, here are some common symptoms of abnormal bleeding we see among our patients:
Usually when a woman presents with abnormal bleeding it is due to benign (not cancer) causes. In cases where the woman is around or beyond menopause, abnormal bleeding may be an early indication of uterine cancer. This should be evaluated with hysteroscopy and directed biopsy. In some cases, pre-cancerous conditions are found. Precancerous findings can be treated medically, and hysterectomy may not be required.
The first step in diagnosing abnormal bleeding is to take a look at your menstrual history. If your changes in flow are recent, this may indicate a fibroid or a polyp. If you’ve had a fairly heavy flow all your life, you may have hormonal or blood clotting problems. Irregular menstrual periods may be caused by ovarian dysfunction, especially in younger or older women.
The next step involves a physical examination and ultrasound. If the uterus is enlarged then fibroids may be present. Ultrasound utilizes sound wave technology to create an image of the uterus. Ultrasound will identify fibroids, polyps and adenomyosis.
You may need a diagnostic hysteroscopy procedure. A hysteroscope is inserted through the cervix to visualize and evaluate the uterine cavity and cervical canal for fibroids, polyps, and other pathologies that are too subtle for transvaginal ultrasound to detect. When there is a concern that cancer may be present diagnostic hysteroscopy with directed biopsies is more accurate than a D&C.
There are several options for treating uterine bleeding depending on your circumstances. In some cases, the problem can be treated with medication, usually a contraceptive (oral or transdermal) or a prescription for the underlying condition causing the bleeding.
If the problem requires surgery, the Advanced Women’s Health Institute offers and recommends the most minimally-invasive surgical options available to you. Whatever you decide, we will work with you to develop a plan in which you are comfortable and confident.