Understanding Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding: What You Need to Know

Abnormal vaginal bleeding is characterized by unusual blood flow from the vagina that may appear between menstrual cycles, during periods, after sexual intercourse, or post-menopause. Each menstrual cycle prepares the endometrium for potential pregnancy, which sheds during menstruation if no pregnancy occurs. Excessive or unusual bleeding might also indicate abnormal vaginal bleeding.

Contents:

• What is Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding?
• Causes of Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
• Symptoms of Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
• Diagnosing Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding

What is Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding?

Abnormal vaginal bleeding is often associated with issues related to the balance of estrogen and progesterone hormones in females. Though not commonly frequent, when it occurs, it can signal severe conditions affecting the uterus, including tumors and cervical cancer. This type of bleeding is prevalent among teenagers who recently started menstruating and women over 45 nearing menopause.

Causes of Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding

Abnormal vaginal bleeding may arise from various factors, including:

• Trauma to the vagina
• Hormonal fluctuations
• Vaginal infections or uterine infections
• Contraceptive methods like pills, injections, or IUDs
• Uterine fibroids or polyps
• Cervical or endometrial cancer
• Thyroid disorders
• Certain medications such as anticoagulants or epilepsy drugs

Symptoms of Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding

1. Excessive bleeding leading to anemia, causing fatigue, dizziness, and fever
2. Frequent vaginal bleeding occurring less than 24 days apart
3. Irregular bleeding patterns during usual periods or at irregular times
4. Menstrual flow heavier than normal, requiring changing pads every hour or soaking through more than four pads a day

Diagnosing Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding

Diagnosis varies per individual and depends on factors like age and type of bleeding. Assessments might include:

• Physical and vital signs checks like weight, blood pressure, and pulse
• Pelvic examinations, including external genitals, vagina, and cervix inspections
• Internal vaginal examination using gloved fingers to check for abnormal uterine size or shape
• Blood tests for hormones that could affect bleeding patterns, like thyroid or cortisol levels
• Office hysteroscopy for direct visualization of the uterine cavity

Summary

Abnormal vaginal bleeding, particularly non-menstrual, is a potential red flag for serious uterine conditions, leading to critical diseases in the future. It’s crucial for individuals to monitor menstrual health closely, observing any deviations from normal bleeding patterns, and maintain good vaginal hygiene to prevent serious health issues related to vaginal health.

Reference:

• Family Doctor (June 2023), Medically reviewed by Robert “Chuck” Rich, Jr., MD, FAAFP, “Abnormal Uterine Bleeding” (Blog), Family Doctor;
• Better Health (September 2012), “Vaginal bleeding – irregular” (Blog), Victoria State Government;
• The Manual’s Editorial (November 2023), “Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB)” (Blog), MSD Manuals;