When Is Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Cause for Concern?

We’re here to discuss abnormal menstrual bleeding, which means something isn’t right. And when something isn’t right, it does warrant some concern or, at the very least, further investigation.

So, if you're dealing with menstrual cycles and periods that aren’t routine or normal, you’ve come to the right place to start your investigation. Before we dive into particulars, we first want to let you know you’re not alone — up to 35% of women around the world experience abnormal uterine bleeding.

In our corner of the world, Dr. Ulas Bozdogan and our team at Advanced Endometriosis Center have a good handle on the many conditions that can lead to abnormal bleeding. 

Following, we discuss what we mean by abnormal bleeding — the symptom encompasses a lot! — and we review some of the more common conditions behind the issue. 

Defining abnormal bleeding

Let’s first tackle what we mean by abnormal bleeding, which is a fairly broad description. There are many ways in which periods and menstrual cycles can be abnormal. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists describes abnormal uterine bleeding as having one or more of the following attributes:

• Heavy bleeding — you soak through tampons or pads every couple of hours
• Spotting in between periods
• Bleeding after sex
• Periods that last more than 7 days
• Periods that aren’t regular (regular is every 21-35 days)
• No periods for 3-6 months
• Bleeding after menopause

These are just guidelines for defining abnormal uterine bleeding, but what constitutes abnormal could be unique to you. 

For example, perhaps you’ve had regular and light periods that came like clockwork each month. Lately, however, your periods have been heavier or irregular, showing up without rhyme or reason. This change is a deviation from your normal and becomes your version of abnormal.

You know your body and menstrual cycles best and if you feel there’s something off, it’s well worth having us check it out.

The many causes of abnormal uterine bleeding

The reason we don’t want you to ignore abnormal bleeding is because this symptom is tied to some serious gynecological issues, such as:

• Endometriosis
• Uterine fibroids
• Adenomyosis
• Polycystic ovary syndrome
• Certain reproductive cancers

Sometimes, using certain birth control methods, such as hormonal birth control, can lead to changes in your menstrual cycles and breakthrough bleeding (bleeding outside your usual periods).

When you come to see us for abnormal menstrual bleeding, we use every tool available to us to determine what’s behind the issue. Dr. Bozdogan is a highly experienced endometriosis and fibroids specialist, which are two leading drivers of abnormal periods, so you’re in excellent hands when it comes to this common complaint among women. 

To get answers for your abnormal bleeding and periods, schedule a consultation with Dr. Bozdogan today online or over the phone. We have offices in New York City and Paramus, New Jersey.