Abnormal Bleeding
Abnormal bleeding can be frightening for patients, especially when it's unexpected or doesn't match a normal menstrual cycle. The Women's Group provides comprehensive diagnostic services and treatment for women experiencing abnormal bleeding in Pensacola, Florida, and the surrounding area. Our board-certified/eligible physicians work closely with each patient to identify the underlying cause, whether it's related to hormonal changes, fibroids, polyps, or other gynecological conditions, and to create a personalized treatment plan. From initial evaluation through ongoing care, our goal is to help women understand what's happening in their bodies and feel confident in the path forward.
What’s abnormal bleeding?
A menstruating woman typically bleeds for 3–5 days every 21–35 days. When bleeding occurs more often than normal, is heavier than normal, or lasts more than one week, it may be abnormal. Bleeding after menopause, bleeding after sex, or spotting between periods may also be abnormal. Any patient experiencing abnormal bleeding should contact The Women's Group for evaluation as soon as possible.
What causes abnormal bleeding?
Abnormal bleeding can have many different causes, including uterine fibroids (benign, noncancerous growths in the uterus), endometriosis, hormonal imbalances, polyps, and pregnancy-related complications such as miscarriage. In other cases, abnormal bleeding occurs because of endometrial hyperplasia, which causes the uterine lining to thicken. Certain medications, thyroid disorders, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also contribute to abnormal bleeding. Because the underlying cause varies widely from patient to patient, an accurate diagnosis from an experienced OB/GYN is essential to determine the right course of treatment.
How does The Women’s Group determine the cause of abnormal bleeding?
When a patient comes in with abnormal bleeding, our team at The Women's Group may recommend a range of tests to help determine the cause, including blood tests, ultrasound, hysteroscopy, and endometrial biopsy. In some cases, a single test may be enough to identify the cause; in others, several tests are needed.
How does The Women’s Group treat abnormal bleeding?
The Women’s Group determines the best treatment for abnormal bleeding based on the bleeding’s cause. For example, if the bleeding relates to hormonal imbalances, our team recommends hormone therapy or hormonal birth control. Likewise, if the bleeding relates to fibroid tumors, our team treats the tumors to resolve the bleeding. Some types of bleeding may also necessitate a surgical procedure known as endometrial ablation.
What’s endometrial ablation?
Endometrial ablation, a procedure that removes or thins the uterine lining, helps slow or stop bleeding. The Women's Group may recommend this procedure for women who experience heavy or prolonged bleeding. After the procedure, some bleeding may return, though it's typically lighter than before.
Have a question about a service?
Our team would be happy to assist you. Call us or request an appointment and we’ll guide you from there.