What counts as abnormal bleeding?
- Periods that last longer than seven days
- Soaking through a pad or tampon every hour or two
- Passing large clots
- Bleeding between periods or after sex
- Cycles shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days
- Any bleeding after menopause
What causes it?
Common causes include hormonal changes, polyps, fibroids, adenomyosis, thyroid problems, bleeding disorders and certain medications. In some women, especially after menopause, bleeding can be a sign of precancerous changes or uterine cancer, which is why it should always be evaluated.
How is it diagnosed?
Evaluation may include a pelvic exam, blood tests, a pregnancy test, ultrasound, an endometrial biopsy or hysteroscopy, which lets your physician look inside the uterus with a thin lighted scope.
How is it treated?
Treatment depends on the cause and whether you want future pregnancies. Options include hormonal birth control, a hormonal IUD, non-hormonal medications, removal of polyps or fibroids with hysteroscopy, endometrial ablation for women who are finished having children, and hysterectomy when other options are not right.
When should I call right away?
Call the office promptly for any bleeding after menopause. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you are soaking through more than one pad an hour for several hours, feel dizzy or faint, or could be pregnant and have heavy bleeding or pain.
Schedule a consultation in Fort Lauderdale
To make an appointment with Women’s Surgical Specialists, call (954) 771-8888, Monday–Friday, 9:00 am–4:30 pm. Our office is at 2800 East Commercial Blvd, Suite 101, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308, and we accept Medicare and most major insurance plans.
This page is general information, not medical advice. For a medical emergency, call 911.