Is your menstrual cycle unpredictable? Do you have uncharacteristically heavy periods? You may be experiencing abnormal uterine bleeding. Though many women have abnormal uterine bleeding, the symptom may be disruptive to daily life and a sign of an underlying gynecological issue. At Oasis Women's Health in Birmingham, Alabama, Heather Skanes, MD, uses a combination of traditional and alternative approaches to address abnormal uterine bleeding. Call the office or book an appointment online today to get the care you need.
Normally, a woman’s menstrual cycle runs anywhere between 24 and 38 days, with up to eight days of menstruation. Any bleeding outside of the normal menstrual cycle is considered abnormal uterine bleeding.
Examples include:
Many women experience abnormal uterine bleeding, which can cause uncomfortable and inconvenient symptoms. At Oasis Women's Health, Dr. Skanes can provide the care you need.
She understands that many women, particularly women of color, may not seek medical help for their gynecological conditions, thinking they’re normal and untreatable. But Dr. Skanes uses both traditional and alternative approaches to effectively diagnose and treat abnormal uterine bleeding.
It’s not uncommon for women to experience abnormal uterine bleeding at the start of their menstrual cycle and during perimenopause. But your abnormal bleeding may also develop from an underlying gynecological problem, such as:
Abnormal uterine bleeding may also develop when using certain types of birth control, such as the intrauterine device (IUD) or birth control pills.
When you visit Oasis Women's Health for an abnormal uterine bleeding consultation, Dr. Skanes conducts an in-depth exam to find the root cause of your symptoms.
She reviews your menstrual cycle and the types of symptoms you’re experiencing. She also asks about your gynecological, medical, and family history and performs a physical and pelvic exam.
To confirm or rule out a suspected diagnosis, Dr. Skanes may request diagnostic tests, such as blood work, urinalysis, or ultrasound testing.
Dr. Skanes takes a patient-centered approach to care and develops personalized treatment plans for abnormal uterine bleeding based on the underlying cause, the severity of symptoms, and personal preferences.
Your treatment plan may include:
If medical treatments fail to improve your abnormal bleeding, Dr. Skanes may recommend minimally invasive surgery, such as endometrial ablation or myomectomy (surgery to remove fibroids).
Abnormal uterine bleeding is common, but not normal. To get the care you need, call Oasis Women's Health or book an appointment online today.