Abnormal uterine bleeding — any change in the frequency, regularity, duration, or volume of your period — is a common and understandably worrying concern. It often points to something treatable, and a careful evaluation is the path to answers and relief.
What causes AUB
Abnormal uterine bleeding usually has more than one contributing factor. The most common include:
- Hormonal imbalances — shifting estrogen and progesterone, especially in perimenopause, menopause, or PMOS (formerly PCOS).
- Structural causes — fibroids, polyps, adenomyosis, or uterine anomalies.
- Clotting disorders — conditions that affect how blood clots can cause heavier flow.
- Medications — hormonal therapies, anticoagulants, and others.
- Endometrial changes — hyperplasia or, rarely, early endometrial cancer.
- Infection or inflammation — such as pelvic inflammatory disease.
- Lifestyle factors — stress, significant weight changes, or excessive exercise.
How we diagnose it
A thorough evaluation pinpoints the cause so we can treat it precisely. Your visit may include:
- A detailed history and pelvic exam
- Blood tests for hormone levels, anemia, and clotting
- A pelvic ultrasound to check for fibroids or polyps
- An endometrial biopsy when changes in the uterine lining are a concern
- Hysteroscopy — a small camera that views the uterine cavity directly
Treatment options
Care is tailored to your specific condition, your overall health, and your reproductive goals.
Hormonal therapies
Combined or progestin-only options — pills, patches, creams, or intrauterine devices — help regulate cycles and lighten flow. For women in perimenopause or menopause, hormone replacement therapy can restore balance where estrogen deficiency is the driver.
Non-hormonal medications
NSAIDs can reduce flow and ease pain, and antifibrinolytics such as tranexamic acid help limit blood loss during menstruation.
Minimally invasive procedures
When polyps or fibroids are found, they can often be removed with hysteroscopic techniques that restore normal menstrual patterns and relieve symptoms.
Lifestyle and supportive care
Nutrition and weight guidance, plus stress reduction and behavioral support, round out a plan that addresses the whole picture.
A personalized approach
Abnormal bleeding can be physically and emotionally challenging. We work closely with you to build a plan around your needs and goals — restoring your health and giving you the knowledge to make confident decisions about your care. Schedule a consultation or call 813-733-7300.
