Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment in Atlanta, GA

Abnormal uterine bleeding is a common gynecologic concern, but that does not mean you have to simply live with heavy, prolonged, or unpredictable periods. Changes in menstrual bleeding can affect your comfort, daily activities, work, exercise, sleep, and overall quality of life. In some cases, changes in your period may also be a sign of an underlying gynecologic condition.

At North Atlanta Ob/Gyn, our experienced OB/GYN providers evaluate and treat abnormal uterine bleeding for women throughout Atlanta, Alpharetta, Marietta, and surrounding North Atlanta communities. Our goal is to understand what is causing your bleeding and recommend treatment based on your symptoms, health history, and individual needs.

What Is Abnormal Uterine Bleeding?

Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is a term used to describe uterine or menstrual bleeding that differs from what is normal for you in its timing, frequency, duration, or amount.

Symptoms of abnormal uterine bleeding may include:

• Heavy periods or menstrual bleeding that is difficult to manage

• Periods lasting longer than seven days

• Bleeding or spotting between periods

• Menstrual cycles that become unusually frequent or infrequent

• Unpredictable or irregular periods

• Passing large blood clots

• Bleeding or spotting after sex

• Bleeding after menopause

An occasional change in your menstrual cycle is not always a cause for concern. However, persistent, unusually heavy, or unexplained bleeding should be evaluated by a gynecologist.

What Causes Heavy or Irregular Periods?

There are many possible reasons your period may become heavier, longer, or less predictable. Identifying the underlying cause is an important part of determining which treatment options are most appropriate for you.

Common causes of abnormal uterine bleeding may include:

• Hormonal changes or problems with ovulation

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

• Uterine fibroids

• Uterine or endometrial polyps

• Adenomyosis

• Endometriosis

• Perimenopause and other age-related hormonal changes

• Thyroid disorders

• Certain medications

• Hormonal birth control or intrauterine devices (IUDs)

• Pregnancy-related conditions

• Bleeding or clotting disorders

Less commonly, abnormal bleeding can be associated with precancerous changes or cancers of the reproductive system. For this reason, new or unexplained abnormal bleeding, particularly bleeding after menopause, should always be discussed with your gynecologist.

How Is Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Diagnosed?

If you are experiencing heavy, prolonged, or irregular periods, your North Atlanta Ob/Gyn provider will begin by talking with you about your symptoms and menstrual history. Your provider may also ask about your medications, birth control, medical history, and any recent changes in your cycle.

Depending on your symptoms, age, medical history, and other individual factors, your evaluation may include:

• A pelvic examination

• Pelvic or transvaginal ultrasound

• Blood testing

• Pregnancy testing when appropriate

• Testing for anemia

• Endometrial biopsy when indicated

• Additional diagnostic testing based on your symptoms

Because abnormal uterine bleeding can have many different causes, there is no single test that is right for every patient. Your provider will recommend testing based on your specific symptoms and health history.

How Is Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Treated?

Treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding depends on what is causing it. Your provider will also consider the severity of your symptoms, your age and medical history, and whether you would like to become pregnant in the future.

Treatment options may include:

• Hormonal medications or birth control

• Non-hormonal medications to help manage heavy menstrual bleeding

• Treatment for an underlying hormonal or medical condition

• Minimally invasive gynecologic procedures

• Treatment for uterine fibroids or polyps

• Surgical treatment when appropriate

Our physicians will talk with you about your options, answer your questions, and help you understand the benefits and considerations of each approach. Together, you can choose a treatment plan that makes sense for your health, your symptoms, and your goals.

When Should I See a Gynecologist for Abnormal Bleeding?

It may be time to schedule an appointment with your gynecologist if your periods have suddenly changed, your bleeding is interfering with your daily life, or you regularly experience very heavy, prolonged, or unpredictable periods.

You should also schedule an evaluation if you experience bleeding after menopause, persistent bleeding between periods, or recurrent bleeding after sex.

If you are experiencing extremely heavy bleeding, particularly when accompanied by dizziness, fainting, weakness, shortness of breath, severe pelvic pain, or other concerning symptoms, seek prompt medical attention.

Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Treatment in Atlanta, Alpharetta & Marietta

Heavy or unpredictable periods can be frustrating, uncomfortable, and disruptive. More importantly, you deserve to understand why they are happening and what can be done to help.

At North Atlanta Ob/Gyn, our experienced OB/GYN providers offer comprehensive evaluation and treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding, heavy periods, irregular menstrual cycles, uterine fibroids, and other gynecologic concerns.

With convenient locations in Atlanta, Alpharetta, and Marietta, Georgia, we provide personalized gynecologic care for women throughout North Atlanta and the surrounding communities.

If you are concerned about heavy, irregular, prolonged, or unexpected bleeding, schedule an appointment with North Atlanta Ob/Gyn today by calling our office or requesting an appointment online.