BLEEDING ABNORMALITIES BETWEEN PERIODS

Bleeding abnormalities between periods are common, especially in teenagers and women nearing menopause. An average menstrual cycle lasts from 28 to 30 days, but a normal cycle can vary from 22 to 35 days. Days are counted from the first day of one period to the first day of the next.

Teens may have the most changes in their cycles. It may take up to 2 years for a young teen's cycle to become normal. The amount of bleeding can also change but will usually become more normal with time.

Women can also have small changes in their periods without worry. Increased bleeding, irregular bleeding or bleeding with sex are symptoms that need to be seen by a healthcare provider.

Older women have more severe problems that need quicker and more thorough testing. Cancer becomes a concern as a woman ages. It is very important to make sure that bleeding is coming from the vagina and not from the rectum (hemorrhoids) or from a urinary tract infection. If able, insert a tampon into the vagina. Doing this will prove that the bleeding is from the vagina and not from somewhere else.

Some of the causes of abnormal bleeding in all ages are:

pregnancy
use of an IUD
stopping and starting birth controls pills and throwing the cycle off of schedule
injury of the vaginal opening caused by intercourse or foreign objects
growths such as polyps, fibroids, or tumors
infections such as vaginitis
dry vaginal walls from the lack of estrogen after menopause
hormonal imbalances
stress
general medical illnesses (like diabetes) and
drugs (like blood thinners)

If you have bleeding problems between periods for 2 months in a row, call your provider. Severe bleeding or pain needs attention sooner. If you think your periods are not normal, keep a daily calendar. Write down how many pads or tampons are being used in one day and the number of days you bleed and compare to your usual menstrual pattern. Note if there are other problems like pain, fever or cramping.

Call your healthcare provider right away if there is heavy bleeding. This would include bleeding that prevents you from doing your normal activities or bleeding through clothing. Keeping track of your symptoms will help the provider decide what further tests you need. These tests may include a pelvic exam, blood tests, urine tests and possibly a pelvic ultrasound. The provider will be looking for the cause of bleeding which may be from an infection, pregnancy, or abnormal cells.

Any treatment needed will depend on the cause of the problem. Drugs, such as hormones (like birth control pills), are common medicines used to treat this problem. In more severe cases, surgery may be needed to fully treat the cause.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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