Abnormal BleedingAbnormal

J. Shan Young, MD LLC Our Services Abnormal Bleeding

J. Shan Young, MD LLC

Board Certified Gynecologists located in Anniston, AL

An estimated 1% of women in the United States experience abnormal menstrual bleeding, but that number may be much higher because many don’t report their problems. At his practice, J. Shan Young, MD, gynecologist Johnny Young, MD, and his skilled team offer medical and surgical treatment options for abnormal bleeding at their welcoming office in Anniston, Alabama. If you’re concerned about abnormal bleeding, call the office or book an appointment online today.

Abnormal Bleeding Q & A

What is abnormal bleeding?

A typical menstrual cycle is 24-38 days long, with up to eight days of bleeding. Abnormal uterine bleeding may include any of the following:

  • Bleeding or spotting after sex
  • Bleeding or spotting between periods
  • Heavy menstrual bleeding
  • Periods that last more than eight days
  • Irregular cycles that vary in length by more than 7-9 days
  • Menstrual cycles that are longer than 38 days or shorter than 24 days
  • Bleeding after menopause

Women of all ages can experience abnormal bleeding, but it’s especially common in adolescents and premenopausal women. If any of the above situations apply to you, the caring practitioners at J. Shan Young, MD, can help. 

What causes abnormal bleeding?

Many issues can cause abnormal uterine bleeding, some of which are more serious than others. The team at J. Shan Young, MD, treats a wide range of problems that can cause abnormal bleeding, including:

  • Uterine fibroids and polyps
  • Endometriosis
  • Problems with ovulation
  • Hormonal changes
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  • Early pregnancy

Abnormal uterine bleeding may also be a warning sign of a serious medical condition, such as uterine or cervical cancer. 

What tests and procedures are used to diagnose abnormal bleeding?

First, your provider asks about your medical history and menstrual cycle. It’s helpful to keep track of your periods, including the dates, length, and type of flow. You can do this on a calendar or smartphone app and bring the information to your appointment. 

They also perform a physical and pelvic exam. Depending on what they observe, your provider may order testing, such as:

  • Blood tests
  • Pregnancy test
  • Pap smear
  • Screenings for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
  • Pelvic ultrasound 
  • Hysteroscopy
  • Endometrial biopsy

These tests help the team at J. Shan Young, MD, to determine the underlying cause of the abnormal bleeding so they can recommend the most appropriate treatment. 

What are the treatment options for abnormal bleeding?

The team offers a variety of medical and surgical treatment options for abnormal bleeding. Depending on your specific condition, treatment may include:

Medication

Medication management is usually the first line of treatment for abnormal bleeding. This may include hormonal therapies or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen. 

Endometrial ablation

This procedure destroys the endometrium, which is the inner lining of the uterus. Endometrial ablation makes future pregnancies unlikely, so it’s used for women who have completed their families. If pregnancy does occur, it can lead to life-threatening complications, so women who undergo this procedure need to use birth control.

Hysterectomy

A hysterectomy involves surgically removing the uterus. Dr. Young specializes in minimally invasive laparoscopic hysterectomies.

Don’t hesitate to call the office of J. Shan Young, MD, or book an appointment online today to find relief from abnormal bleeding.

What we offer

Services