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Common Gynecological Problems & Procedures

Abnormal uterine bleeding

This term is a catchall for problems associated with vaginal bleeding. This may be related to the menstrual cycle, but at times abnormal bleeding may occur before the onset of menses, during pregnancy and after menopause. Overwhelmingly, bleeding problems are caused by an imbalance in the hormones that control the menstrual cycle and are referred to as “ dysfunctional uterine bleeding.” When vaginal bleeding is not related to the menstrual cycle, it is of increased concern. This is especially true when it occurs in childhood before menstruation has begun, during pregnancy, and at midlife, after a woman has entered menopause.

Vaginal bleeding may be more likely associated with the following :

In a young, pre-pubertal girl

injury
sexual abuse
a blood clotting problem
early puberty
severe vaginal irritation (bubble bath, etc.)

In a woman of reproductive age

hormone imbalance
tubal or ectopic pregnancy
molar pregnancy
placenta previa - pregnancy where the placenta lies low near or over the cervix
uterine fibroids
certain kinds of cysts and tumors (rarely cancerous)
endometriosis
birth control pills
IUD (intrauterine device)

In post-menopausal women

effects of hormone replacement therapy
cancer
certain kinds of cysts and tumors (not cancerous)
atrophic vaginitis (irritation and drying)
weakened pelvic floor muscles causing prolapse.