Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) refers to any atypical bleeding from the uterus that deviates from a woman’s normal menstrual cycle. However, according to the Best Fibroid surgeon in Kolkata, this abnormal uterine bleeding can occur at any age and has various causes. Here’s a comprehensive overview of abnormal uterine bleeding, including its symptoms, causes, and complications.
What are the symptoms of abnormal uterine bleeding?
• Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (Menorrhagia): Excessive bleeding that lasts longer than a week or involves the passage of large blood clots.
• Irregular Menstrual Cycles (Metrorrhagia): Menstrual cycles that are shorter or longer than usual, or bleeding that occurs between periods.
• Prolonged Menstrual Bleeding (Menometrorrhagia): Episodes of menstrual bleeding that last longer than seven days or a week.
• Postmenopausal Bleeding: A type of vaginal bleeding that occurs after menopause.
What are the causes of abnormal uterine bleeding?
Every Consultant Gyne Oncologist in Kolkata claims that abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) can be caused by various factors. Here are some common causes of abnormal uterine bleeding –
• Hormonal Imbalances:
◦ Anovulation: Lack of ovulation, leading to irregular menstrual cycles.
◦ Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A common hormonal disorder affecting reproductive-aged women.
◦ Thyroid Disorders: Abnormalities in thyroid function can impact menstrual cycles.
• Structural Abnormalities:
◦ Uterine Fibroids: Noncancerous growths in the uterus that can cause heavy or prolonged bleeding.
◦ Endometrial Polyps: Abnormal tissue growth in the inner lining of the uterus.
◦ Adenomyosis: Presence of endometrial tissue within the muscle wall of the uterus.
• Certain Medical Conditions:
◦ Blood Disorders: Conditions like von Willebrand disease or other bleeding disorders can cause excessive bleeding.
◦ Liver or Kidney Diseases: Dysfunction in these organs can affect clotting factors.
◦ Inflammatory Disorders: Conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can cause inflammation and bleeding.
• Pregnancy-related Causes:
◦ Miscarriage: Early pregnancy loss can result in abnormal bleeding.
◦ Ectopic Pregnancy: A pregnancy that occurs outside the uterus can cause vaginal bleeding.
What are the complications of abnormal uterine bleeding?
Some potential complications associated with untreated or poorly managed abnormal uterine bleeding include:
• Anemia: Prolonged or heavy bleeding can lead to a loss of iron and other blood components, causing anemia. However, anemia can result in fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and shortness of breath.
• Fertility Issues: Depending on the cause of the abnormal bleeding, it may interfere with fertility. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or certain structural abnormalities may affect ovulation and fertility.
• Impact on Bone Health: Conditions that cause hormonal imbalances, such as anovulation or PCOS, may affect bone health, potentially leading to osteoporosis over time.
• Risk of Endometrial Hyperplasia or Cancer: Persistent, untreated abnormal bleeding may be associated with an increased risk of endometrial hyperplasia (abnormal thickening of the uterine lining) or, in some cases, endometrial cancer.
Now that you are aware of abnormal uterine bleeding, it is certainly needless to say that regular gynecological check-ups and open communication with the Best Female Gynae Oncologist in Kolkata are crucial. Regular checkups are important for the early detection and management of abnormal uterine bleeding and its potential complications.
Meet Dr Monika Meena
Dr Monika is an expert trained robotic gynae surgeon, oncosurgeon in Kolkata. Her main interest lies in robotic and minimal invasive gynaecology. She has the highest robotic cases to her credit amongst the female gynecologists in east India.
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