SERVICES AND CONDITIONS
ABNORMAL UTERINE BLEEDING
Abnormal uterine bleeding, otherwise known as dysfunctional uterine bleeding, is when your bleeding is unusually heavy or inconsistent (bleeding during other times in your menstrual cycle). These abnormalities can cause anxiety in not knowing when you might bleed, for how long and how much. Abnormal menstrual bleeding can negatively affect the quality of life of women of all ages, making your life while menstruating intolerable.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN NORMAL MENSTRUATION AND ABNORMAL UTERINE BLEEDING?
A normal menstrual cycle involves bleeding roughly every 28 days for 3-7 days. Those with abnormal uterine bleeding may experience bleeding or spotting between periods, or extremely heavy menstrual bleeding.
Abnormal uterine bleeding arises from one of the following conditions:
- Fibroids are mostly benign muscle growths that develop inside or on the surface of the uterus. Fibroids can occur singularly or in clusters. The size depends on their blood supply but can grow up to 20 cm. Location, size and variation within or around your uterus determine its removal.
- Polyps are harmless tissue clumps that grow along the lining of the uterus or cervix. They attach to the endometrium via a long, slender stalk and grow into the uterus affecting menstruation and fertility.
- Uterine cancer causes irregular bleeding, especially in women bleeding after menopause has set in. Uterine sarcoma is rare and begins in the muscle wall of the uterus (myometrium).
- Cervical cancer begins inside the cells of the transformation zone of the cervix. This condition is highly preventable through regular gynaecological screenings, pap smears, Human Papilloma virus testing and cervical cancer vaccination.
HOW CAN IT BE DIAGNOSED?
If you experience the symptoms mentioned above or believe your menstrual cycle may not be normal, Dr Hartell will be able to assist you. Abnormal uterine bleeding may be diagnosed when discussing the symptoms you experience during your menstrual cycle and with the aid of diagnostic tests. Suppose Dr Hartell believes that your bleeding may be irregular, she may want to find the cause for this by doing tests, e.g. an ultrasound, endometrial biopsy, cervical evaluation with colposcopy and/or hysteroscopy.
WHAT MAY TREATMENT INVOLVE?
Treatment of abnormal uterine bleeding will depend on the underlying cause. Usually, treatment includes hormones, contraceptives, progestogen devices or surgical procedures. Treatment will also vary as each woman is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Dr Hartell ensures an individualised approach to treatment with her compassion for her patients, finding the treatment option that best suits your lifestyle.
