Menstrual Abnormalities and Abnormal Bleeding Problems

Dr Aneeqah Hendricks has many years of experience treating menstrual abnormalities and abnormal bleeding problems. Many women suffer from bleeding problems, which include:

• abnormal uterine bleeding, which may include heavy menstrual bleeding, no menstrual bleeding (amenorrhea) or irregular menstrual bleeding
• Painful menstrual periods (dysmenorrhea)
• Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

In most women, abnormal bleeding is caused by a hormone imbalance. This is seen commonly in teenagers, pregnant women, or women who are approaching menopause. Polyps or fibroids, which are small and large growths in the uterus, can cause bleeding. In rare cases, a thyroid problem, infection of the cervix, or cancer of the uterus can cause abnormal uterine bleeding.

TREATMENTS

Treatments for menstrual disorders range from medications to surgery. Treatment options will depend on the diagnosis, severity, which treatment you prefer, and your health history. Treatment choices depend on age, the desire to preserve fertility and the cause of the abnormal bleeding, whether it's dysfunctional or structural.

Medication: Medication therapy is often successful and is the preferred option. Medications include birth control pills, progestins, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, tranexamic acid (Lysteda), and the levonorgestrel intrauterine system (IUD/Mirena). It is important to note that the benefits last only as long as the medication is taken.

Surgery: There are surgical options for heavy bleeding; however, these procedures can result in the loss of fertility, so they need to be carefully considered.

• Endometrial ablation
• Endometrial resection
• Dilation and curettage (D&C)
• Myomectomy
• Hysterectomy

Treatments for menstrual cramps and PMS

• Medications - over-the-counter and prescription medications, like ibuprofen for pain, and oral contraceptive pills for heavy bleeding
• Applying heat to your abdominal area
• Exercise
• Dietary changes - such as cutting back on alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, salt and refined sugar. Increasing calcium intake, and eating more fruits, vegetables, grains and beans.