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Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is a common health issue that affects many women, causing bleeding outside of the normal menstrual cycle or heavier periods than usual. In Pune, especially in areas like Wakad and Baner, more women are seeking expert help from AUB to improve their quality of life. Common causes include hormonal imbalance, fibroids, polyps, thyroid problems, and sometimes even stress or infections. If you notice frequent or heavy bleeding, it is important to consult the best gynecologist in Baner like Dr. Asmita Dongare. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help control signs and prevent complications. Here, we’ll discuss AUB—what it is, its symptoms, treatment options, and more.

What is Abnormal Uterine Bleeding?

Abnormal Uterine Bleeding refers to any unexpected bleeding pattern outside the normal menstrual cycle. While occasional variations in menstrual flow are common, persistent or heavy bleeding should never be ignored. To understand what makes bleeding “abnormal,” it helps to know what’s considered normal. A typical menstrual cycle lasts around 28 days (though 21-35 days is within the normal range), with bleeding usually lasting about 3 to 7 days. Any significant deviation from your regular pattern that persists for months may indicate AUB.

Common Symptoms of AUB:

Women experiencing AUB may notice several distinct symptoms that differ from their usual menstrual patterns. Heavy periods (menorrhagia) are the leading symptom, seen in about 58.45% of AUB cases in India. Other symptoms include:

  1. Bleeding between periods (intermenstrual bleeding)
  2. Bleeding after intercourse
  3. Unusually long periods (lasting more than 7 days)
  4. Passing large blood clots
  5. Bleeding that soaks through one or more sanitary pads or tampons every hourly
  6. Needing to wake up to change sanitary safety during the night
  7. Feeling tired, low energy, or experiencing shortness of breath (signs of anemia from blood loss)

If you notice these symptoms, consulting with a gynecologist in Pune like Dr. Asmita Dongare, who has over 15 years of knowledge in treating complex gynecological cases, is highly recommended.

Common Causes of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding:

Hormonal Imbalances:

Hormone level changes, especially in estrogen and progesterone, can affect the regular menstrual cycle. Conditions that may cause hormonal imbalances include:

  1. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
  2. Thyroid disorders
  3. Perimenopause
  4. Stress and significant weight changes

Studies in India show that ovulatory disorders account for approximately 20% of AUB cases, making them one of the more common causes, especially in younger women.

Structural Causes:

Non-cancerous growths in the reproductive system can cause abnormal bleeding patterns:

  • Uterine Fibroids (Leiomyomas): Fibroids are the most common structural cause of AUB in Indian women, accounting for about 30% of cases. These benign growths in the uterus can lead to heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding. If you’re seeking treatment for uterine fibroids in Pune, several options are available, including medications, minimally invasive procedures, and surgical approaches.
  • Adenomyosis: This condition, where endometrial tissue grows into the muscular wall of the uterus, accounts for approximately 21% of AUB cases in India. Females with adenomyosis often encounter heavy and painful periods.
  • Endometrial Polyps: These small, usually non-cancerous growths form in the lining of the uterus and can cause irregular bleeding. About 8% of AUB cases in Indian women are attributed to polyps.
Other Medical Conditions:

Various conditions can also cause abnormal uterine bleeding:

  1. Endometriosis – when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus
  2. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) – usually linked to infections from STIs
  3. Bleeding disorders: Though uncommon, conditions affecting blood clotting can cause heavy menstrual bleeding
  4. Endometrial hyperplasia: Thickening of the uterine lining
  5. Cancer: Rarely, uterine, cervical, or ovarian cancer may cause abnormal bleeding

Diagnosis of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding:

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any persistent abnormal bleeding pattern, it’s important to consult with a gynecologist promptly. You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience extremely heavy bleeding (soaking through pads/tampons every hour) or bleeding during pregnancy.

Diagnostic Process:

Dr. Asmita Dongare top gynecologists in Pune typically follow a comprehensive diagnostic approach:

Medical History and Physical Examination:

A detailed history of your menstrual cycle changes is the first and most important step in understanding the root cause. Our doctor will ask about:

  1. Your normal menstrual pattern
  2. Recent changes in bleeding
  3. Associated symptoms
  4. Medical history and medications
  5. Family history

Laboratory Tests:

Blood tests may be recommended to check:

  1. Complete blood count (to check for anemia)
  2. Hormonal tests (thyroid function, prolactin levels)
  3. Clotting profile (if bleeding disorder is suspected)

Imaging Tests:

  1. Pelvic ultrasound: This is a standard first-line imaging test that checks the uterine lining thickness and looks for fibroids, polyps, and other structural abnormalities.
  2. Sonohysterography: A special ultrasound using fluid in the uterus for clearer images.
  3. MRI: Sometimes used for more detailed imaging, especially for adenomyosis

Tissue Sampling:

  1. Endometrial biopsy: Often recommended when cancer is a concern, especially with thickened endometrium.
  2. Hysteroscopy: A procedure that allows immediate visualization of the uterine cavity.

Treatment Options for Abnormal Uterine Bleeding in Pune:

The treatment procedure for AUB depends on the underlying reason, your age, general health, and whether you desire to preserve fertility. In Pune, particularly in areas like Wakad and Baner, several treatment options are available:

Lifestyle Modifications:

The foremost line of therapy often involves healthy lifestyle modifications. Many women respond positively to:

  1. Eating a balanced diet
  2. Regular physical exercise
  3. Weight management
  4. Stress reduction techniques

These adjustments are beneficial for AUB related to hormonal imbalances.

Medical Management:

1. Hormonal Treatments:

  1. Oral contraceptive pills: Regulate menstrual cycles and reduce bleeding
  2. Progesterone therapy: Often used for anovulatory bleeding
  3. Hormonal IUDs: Directly deliver hormones to the uterine lining, reducing bleeding
  4. GnRH agonists: Temporarily induce a menopausal state (used short-term)

2. Non-Hormonal Medications:

  1. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Reduce pain and bleeding
  2. Tranexamic acid: Supports blood clot formation and lowers serious bleeding
  3. Iron supplements: Given to treat or prevent anaemia caused by significant blood loss.
Minimally Invasive Procedures:

1. Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE):

This is a highly effective treatment for uterine fibroids available in Pune. The procedure involves injecting tiny particles into blood vessels supplying the fibroids, cutting off their blood supply and causing them to shrink. UFE offers several advantages, including shorter recovery times, less pain, and preservation of the uterus for women wishing to maintain fertility.

2. Endometrial Ablation:

This procedure destroys the uterine lining, significantly reducing or stopping menstrual flow. It’s suitable for women who have completed their family.

3. Hysteroscopic Procedures:

Performed through a hysteroscope (a thin device inserted through the cervix), these procedures can remove polyps and small fibroids without major surgery.

Surgical Options:

For cases that don’t respond to less invasive treatments, surgical options may be considered:

1. Myomectomy:

Myomectomy is a surgery to remove fibroids while keeping the uterus intact. It helps preserve fertility and can be done through hysteroscopic, laparoscopic, or abdominal methods.

2. Hysterectomy:

The complete removal of the uterus is often considered when other treatments have failed or in certain specific situations. In a study from Silchar Medical College, hysterectomy was the most common treatment performed for AUB (47% of cases). While effective, it’s usually considered as a last resort as it permanently ends fertility.

Dr. Asmita Dongare: Expert Care for AUB in Wakad, Pune:

If you’re looking for specialized therapy for abnormal uterine bleeding in Pune, Dr. Asmita Dongare offers expert care at Cloverleaf Specialty Clinic in Wakad. With more than 15 years of experience handling complex gynecological cases, Dr. Asmita Dongare provides comprehensive care for all types of abnormal uterine bleeding.

Her services include:

  1. Detailed evaluation and diagnosis of AUB
  2. Personalized treatment plans
  3. Minimally invasive procedures
  4. Surgical management when necessary
  5. Follow-up care and support

Dr. Asmita Dongare’s expertise extends to various specialized procedures, including medical abortion, uterus removal, infertility treatment, and management of high-risk pregnancies. Her qualifications include an MBBS from Grant Medical College, Mumbai, a diplomat qualification from YCMC Hospital Pimpri, and an MRCOG from London.

What to Expect During Your Consultation?

When visiting a gynecologist for AUB in Pune, you can expect:

  1. A thorough discussion about your symptoms and medical history
  2. A comprehensive physical examination
  3. Appropriate diagnostic tests as needed
  4. A detailed explanation of your condition
  5. Discussion of treatment options suited to your specific situation
  6. Clear information about the risks, benefits, and expected outcomes of each treatment
  7. Continuous support throughout your treatment journey

Prevention and Management of AUB:

While not all causes of AUB can be prevented, certain lifestyle choices may help reduce your risk:

Healthy Lifestyle Practices:
  1. Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity is linked to hormonal imbalances that can contribute to AUB
  2. Exercise regularly: Physical activity helps regulate hormones and reduce stress
  3. Manage stress: Chronic stress can disrupt normal hormonal patterns
  4. Follow a healthy diet: It helps keep your hormones in balance.
Regular Gynecological Check-ups:

Regular visits to a gynecologist, especially if you notice any changes in your menstrual pattern, can help with the early detection and management of conditions that might cause AUB.

Conclusion:

Abnormal Uterine Bleeding is a common condition that affects many women in India. While it can be concerning and disruptive to daily life, effective treatment options are available, especially in Pune where several skilled gynecologists practice. Understanding the causes and symptoms of AUB is the first step toward finding relief.

If you’re experiencing abnormal bleeding patterns, don’t hesitate to consult with a specialist like Dr. Asmita Dongare experienced gynecologists in the Wakad, Baner, Hinjewadi, or Ravet areas of Pune. With proper diagnosis and treatment, most women can find significant improvement in their symptoms and quality of life.

Remember that early diagnosis and proper management prevent complications. Dr. Asmita Dongare gynecologist in Pune can help you navigate the various treatment options to find the approach that works best for your specific situation, health goals, and lifestyle needs.