Abnormal Uterine Bleeding at Minnerva Clinic
— Understanding Irregular or Heavy Periods with Expert Guidance
Abnormal Uterine Bleeding – Let’s Understand What’s Going On
If your periods feel different lately — perhaps they’re too long, too heavy, or happening too often or at unexpected times — you are certainly not alone. Many women experience changes in their menstrual cycle at some point in their lives, and it can be a source of worry or disruption to daily life.
The good news is that abnormal uterine bleeding can have many different causes, and most of them are treatable and manageable. It's your body's way of telling you that something might be a little off, and often, it's not a serious concern.
At Minnerva Clinic, we’re here to help you understand these changes. We offer clear, step-by-step care to find the cause of your bleeding, providing accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment options in a supportive and respectful environment.
You know your body best. If something feels off, let’s check it together.
What Counts as Abnormal Bleeding?
Understanding what qualifies as "abnormal" bleeding can sometimes be confusing, as every woman's cycle is unique. However, there are some common signs that suggest your bleeding pattern might need attention.
Abnormal uterine bleeding refers to bleeding that:
- Is heavier than usual: You might be soaking through pads or tampons much faster than before (e.g., every one to two hours), or passing large blood clots.
- Is lasting more than 7–10 days: If your period extends beyond a week to ten days, or significantly longer than your usual cycle length.
- Is happening between periods: Any bleeding or spotting that occurs when you are not expecting your period.
- Occurs after sex: Bleeding that happens after intercourse and is not related to your menstrual period.
- Occurs after menopause: Any bleeding or spotting, no matter how light, after you have officially gone through menopause (12 consecutive months without a period).
- Is skipped for months, then suddenly heavy: If you have long gaps between your periods, sometimes followed by an exceptionally heavy or prolonged flow.
- Is too frequent: If your periods are coming much more often than every 21 days.
- Is too infrequent: If your periods are coming less often than every 35 days.
Bleeding that affects your energy, work, or sleep is also a concern. If abnormal bleeding is impacting your daily activities, causing fatigue due to blood loss (anemia), or making you anxious, it's a valid reason to seek medical advice.
These changes can happen at any age, from adolescence through to perimenopause and post-menopause. If you notice any of these patterns, it's a good idea to consult with a gynecologist.
Possible Causes of Abnormal Bleeding
Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) can stem from a wide range of factors. Most causes are not serious and can be managed effectively. We can generally break down the possible causes into easy-to-understand sections:
Hormonal Causes
Your hormones play a huge role in regulating your menstrual cycle. Imbalances can easily lead to irregular bleeding.
- PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome): Can lead to irregular cycles, skipped periods, or heavy bleeding.
- Thyroid Imbalance: Both overactive or underactive thyroid can disrupt your cycle.
- Perimenopause or Early Menopause: Fluctuating hormone levels lead to unpredictable periods.
- Hormonal Contraceptives: Starting or stopping birth control can cause spotting or bleeding.
Structural Causes
These refer to physical growths or changes within the uterus itself.
- Uterine Fibroids: Non-cancerous growths that can cause heavy, prolonged bleeding.
- Polyps: Small, benign growths on the lining of the uterus or cervix, a common cause of bleeding between periods.
- Adenomyosis: Uterine lining tissue grows into the muscular wall, causing heavy, painful periods.
- Scarring (Asherman’s Syndrome): Scar tissue inside the uterus can lead to light or absent periods.
Endometrial or Uterine Lining Changes
Issues directly affecting the inner lining of the uterus.
- Endometrial Hyperplasia: The uterine lining becomes abnormally thick; some types can be precancerous.
- Early Signs of Uterine or Cervical Cancer: While less common, abnormal bleeding can be an early symptom.
Pregnancy-Related Causes
Bleeding during pregnancy requires immediate evaluation.
- Miscarriage: Bleeding can be a sign of an early miscarriage.
- Ectopic Pregnancy: A serious condition where a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus.
Medications or IUD Side Effects
Sometimes, your bleeding pattern can be influenced by external factors.
- Certain Contraceptives: Hormonal birth control can cause spotting; non-hormonal IUDs can cause heavier periods.
- Blood Thinners: Medications that prevent blood clotting can lead to heavier bleeding.
Identifying the specific cause is the first step towards effective treatment, and our team at Minnerva Clinic is equipped to help you do just that.
When Should You See a Doctor?
While occasional minor variations in your period can be normal, certain types of abnormal bleeding warrant a consultation with a gynecologist. You should consider seeing a doctor at Minnerva Clinic if you experience:
- Periods that soak through pads or tampons every 1–2 hours: This indicates extremely heavy bleeding.
- Bleeding lasting longer than 8–10 days: If your period consistently extends beyond this typical length.
- Bleeding between periods or after intercourse: Any spotting or bleeding that happens outside of your expected menstrual flow.
- Any spotting or bleeding after menopause: This is a critical symptom that should be checked immediately.
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or persistent fatigue due to blood loss: These can be signs of anemia.
- Missed periods for months, followed by an exceptionally heavy flow: This pattern can indicate hormonal imbalances.
- Severe pelvic pain or cramping along with abnormal bleeding: Debilitating pain should be investigated.
- Any new or concerning change to your menstrual cycle: You know your body best. If something feels significantly "off," it's worth getting it checked.
Don't hesitate to reach out if you're experiencing any of these symptoms. Early evaluation can provide clarity and lead to effective solutions.
How We Diagnose the Cause at Minnerva Clinic
Our diagnostic process typically involves a combination of the following:
1. Medical History and Symptom Discussion
We take time to understand your cycle, symptoms, and concerns. Your doctor will ask you detailed questions about your menstrual history and overall health in a safe, non-judgmental space.
2. Ultrasound / Transvaginal Scan (TVS)
This is a common first step to view the uterus and lining. An ultrasound can detect fibroids, polyps, thickness, or fluid, and a TVS provides an even closer, more detailed view.
3. Endometrial Biopsy
A small sample from the uterine lining is taken to check for cell changes like hormonal imbalances, endometrial hyperplasia, or, in rare cases, early signs of cancer.
4. Hysteroscopy
A camera-based exam of the uterus, considered the "gold standard" for a direct visual assessment. It allows your doctor to see any fibroids, polyps, or scar tissue inside the uterus.
5. Blood Tests
Blood tests can help check for hormonal imbalances (thyroid, prolactin), anemia (CBC), or rule out pregnancy.
By combining these diagnostic tools, our team can pinpoint the cause of your abnormal bleeding and recommend the most effective and personalized treatment plan for you.
Treatment Options Based on Cause
Once the cause is identified, our team will discuss a personalized treatment plan with you. Options generally fall into these categories:
1. Medical Management
Often, abnormal bleeding can be effectively managed with medications like Hormonal Therapy (birth control pills, progestin), Iron Supplements (if anemic), or treatment for underlying conditions like thyroid issues or PCOS.
2. Hysteroscopic or Surgical Procedures
For structural causes, minimally invasive procedures can be highly effective. This includes Polyp or Fibroid Removal (Hysteroscopic Myomectomy), Dilation & Curettage (D&C), Endometrial Ablation, or, in rare cases, Hysterectomy.
3. Monitoring
Not every case needs intervention. Sometimes, especially during perimenopause, if the cause is benign and symptoms are mild, your doctor might recommend simply monitoring your cycles and symptoms.
Our team will explain all available options clearly, discussing the benefits, risks, and recovery for each, to help you make an informed decision.
Why Choose Minnerva Clinic?
Women-led team that listens
Our clinic is led by Dr. Pragya Gupta and an all-women team that understands your health concerns and ensures you feel truly heard and respected.
Clear diagnosis without pressure
We are committed to providing an accurate diagnosis and explaining everything in simple, clear language, empowering you without rushing you into decisions.
Advanced tools with a gentle approach
We utilize modern diagnostic tools like detailed ultrasound and hysteroscopy, performed with utmost gentleness and precision to ensure your comfort.
Care plans that respect your comfort and goals
Every treatment plan is individualized, taking into account your age, symptoms, overall health, and personal goals, including future fertility.
Transparent communication at every step
From your initial consultation to follow-up, you will receive clear, honest, and compassionate communication. We ensure you feel supported.
Holistic support
Beyond medical treatment, we offer emotional support and guidance, recognizing that abnormal bleeding can impact your emotional well-being.
Testimonials
"My periods were all over the place, making daily life really difficult. At Minnerva Clinic, they listened patiently, found a small polyp, and treated it quickly with hysteroscopy. I finally have regular periods again!"
"I had been experiencing heavy bleeding for about six months, and no one seemed to get to the bottom of it. Minnerva Clinic gave me clear answers about my bleeding and a treatment plan that worked. I finally feel normal again."
"As I approached menopause, my periods became so unpredictable. Dr. Gupta explained perimenopause and how to manage the irregular bleeding. I feel so much more informed and confident."
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.Is it normal to bleed for 10 days?
While menstrual cycles vary, bleeding for 10 days or longer is generally considered prolonged and falls under abnormal uterine bleeding. If this is a regular occurrence for you, it's a good idea to consult a doctor to understand the cause.
Q.Does abnormal bleeding mean cancer?
No, in the vast majority of cases, abnormal uterine bleeding is not a sign of cancer. Most causes are benign (non-cancerous), such as hormonal imbalances, fibroids, or polyps. However, it's important to get it checked, especially if you're postmenopausal.
Q.Can PCOS cause irregular bleeding?
Yes, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a very common cause of irregular bleeding. Hormonal imbalances in PCOS can lead to unpredictable cycles, skipped periods, or sometimes prolonged and heavy bleeding.
Q.Will I need a biopsy?
An endometrial biopsy is often recommended if your ultrasound shows a thickened uterine lining, if you are experiencing postmenopausal bleeding, or if other symptoms suggest a need to examine the cells of your uterine lining more closely.
Q.Can heavy bleeding affect fertility?
Yes, heavy or irregular bleeding, especially if caused by conditions like fibroids, polyps, or certain hormonal imbalances, can potentially affect fertility. Treating the underlying cause can often improve fertility outcomes.
Q.What’s the treatment for abnormal cycles?
Treatment depends entirely on the cause. It can range from simple medical management (like hormonal therapy) to minimally invasive procedures (like removing fibroids or polyps via hysteroscopy) or monitoring without active intervention.
Bleeding that feels unusual is your body’s way of asking for attention.
Let’s find out what it needs — with calm, careful support — so you can feel balanced and confident in your health again.