Abnormal Bleeding Specialist

Advanced Women's Healthcare

Obstetrics & Gynecology located in Bloomington, IL

Bleeding


Abnormal Bleeding

Bleeding in-between periods, for a prolonged duration, or with an extremely heavy flow may be warning signs of an underlying health problem that needs treatment. Our experienced OB/GYNs diagnose and treat abnormal uterine bleeding at Advanced Women’s Healthcare in Bloomington, Illinois. If you experience abnormal bleeding, don’t hesitate to call us for an appointment. 


Abnormal Bleeding Q & A

When is bleeding considered abnormal?

It’s normal to bleed during your menstrual period, but anything beyond that could signal a problem. Periods may last up to eight days and usually occur every 24-38 days.

Abnormal uterine bleeding includes:

  • Bleeding or spotting in-between periods
  • Very heavy menstrual bleeding
  • Periods that last longer than eight days
  • Menstrual cycles longer than 38 days or shorter than 24 days
  • Bleeding or spotting after sex
  • Bleeding after menopause

Younger girls who just started getting their periods usually don’t have normal cycles right away. Irregular menstrual cycles that vary in length are common at this time and typically not cause for concern.

What causes abnormal uterine bleeding?

The team at Advanced Women’s Healthcare treats many causes of abnormal bleeding, including:

  • Ectopic pregnancy
  • Miscarriage
  • Uterine fibroids or polyps
  • Endometriosis
  • Certain types of cancer, including uterine

Problems with some methods of birth control, including the pill and intrauterine device (IUD) can also cause abnormal bleeding.

Some causes of abnormal bleeding are easy to treat while others are more serious. If you experience abnormal bleeding, the best thing to do is schedule an appointment with an OB/GYN at Advanced Women’s Healthcare as soon as possible.

How is abnormal uterine bleeding diagnosed and treated?

First, your Advanced Women’s Healthcare provider carefully reviews your symptoms and medical history, including your menstrual cycle. It’s helpful to keep track of your periods and symptoms in a notebook, calendar, or app on your smartphone. Take note of the dates, length, and flow of your period, as well as any spotting, and bring this information to your appointment.

Your OB/GYN also performs a complete physical and pelvic exam. They may also perform one or more of the following.

  • Blood tests
  • Pregnancy test
  • Ultrasound
  • Hysteroscopy
  • Endometrial biopsy

Then, they create a personalized treatment plan to control your heavy bleeding. If they detect an underlying health problem, like endometriosis, treatment focuses on resolving this condition.

Otherwise, treatment for heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding usually begins with medication. Hormonal birth control methods, like the pill or IUD, can make your period lighter and more predictable.

If medications don’t relieve your symptoms, or if you have a serious condition like cancer, surgery may be necessary.

You should not ignore abnormal uterine bleeding. Call Advanced Women’s Healthcare to schedule an appointment. 

LOCATION

Advanced Women's Healthcare
2111 E Oakland Avenue, Suite B
Bloomington, IL 61701
Phone: 309-808-3068
Fax: (309) 808-3072

OFFICE HOURS

Monday: 7:30 am - 4:30 pm
Tuesday: 7:30 am - 4:30 pm
Wednesday: 7:30 am - 4:30 pm
Thursday: 7:30 am - 4:30 pm
Friday: 7:30 am - 4:30 pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

NEW AWHC MIDWIFERY SERVICE CENTERS WITH OSF PARTNERSHIP

  • Pontiac: 2500 W. Reynolds St., Pontiac, IL 61764 Phone: 815-842-3567
  • Urbana: 1405 W. Park St., STE 302, Urbana, IL 61801 Phone: 217-337-2010
  • Forsyth: 845 US 51, Forsyth, IL 62535  Phone: 217-443-5697