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Last Updated: Jan 10, 2023
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Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

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Dr. Nupur GuptaGynaecologist • 27 Years Exp.MICOG, MS - Obstetrics and Gynaecology, MBBS
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Abnormal uterine bleeding, formerly known as dysfunctional uterine bleeding, is vaginal bleeding that cannot be related to pelvic injuries, miscarriage, pregnancy or menstrual cycle.

Symptoms:

  1. The cycle changes and the bleeding become heavier.

  2. Bleeding lasts for 7 days or more.

  3. A tender or dry vagina.

  4. Abnormal mood swings.

  5. Hot flashes.

  6. Nausea.

  7. Excessive body hair, especially on the back, chest and face.

Causes:

  1. The ovaries do not release an egg.

  2. Changes in the hormone level.

  3. Lower levels of oestrogen or progesterone.

  4. Thickening of the uterine wall in women above 40 years of age.

  5. Certain birth control pills can also cause abnormal bleeding.

  6. Some women also complain of abnormal bleeding in their first few weeks of pregnancy.

Diagnostic Procedure:

  1. The physician first checks the haemoglobin levels of the woman.

  2. An ultrasound of the pelvic region is done to check for physical injuries.

  3. Sometimes, an endometrial biopsy (the doctor checks a sample of the endometrium, which is the lining of the uterus) is also used to test the condition of the uterine lining.

  4. Hysteroscopy, using a hysteroscope, is used to test the insides of the uterus. A hysteroscope is a thin tube that is inserted into the vagina for the examination of cervix as well as the insides of the uterus.

Treatment:

  1. Younger women in the range of 18-23 years of age are usually treated using low doses of birth control pills.

  2. Oestrogen therapy is used.

  3. Painkillers such as ibuprofen are also prescribed before the beginning of the menstrual periods.

  4. The increase of ‘progesterone’ through IUD. An IUD (intrauterine device) is a contraceptive device that is inserted into the uterus.

  5. Cyclic hormone therapy is given to women above 40 years of age (Progesterone is administered in a periodic interval, usually about 4 weeks).

  6. Women considering pregnancy are recommended hormone therapy to increase ovulation.

  7. Anaemic women are given iron supplements.
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