What is Abnormal Menstruation?

Menstruation, a natural process experienced by women of reproductive age, involves the regular shedding of the uterine lining. This is a monthly cycle that typically lasts between 21 and 35 days. While it can vary in flow and duration among individuals but generally follows a predictable pattern. However, for many women, this cycle does not always run smoothly. 

Abnormal menstruation, or abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB), encompasses a range of menstrual irregularities that deviate from the typical menstrual cycle. These irregularities can manifest as changes in the frequency, duration, flow, or associated symptoms of menstruation, often leading to discomfort and concern.

There are several causes of abnormal menstruation. These include the following:

• Hormonal Imbalances: Variations in estrogen and progesterone levels can disrupt normal menstrual cycles.
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS):  A common hormonal disorder that can cause irregular periods.
• Uterine Fibroids:  Non-cancerous growths in the uterus can lead to heavy bleeding and prolonged periods.
• Endometriosis:  A condition where the tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus grows outside it, causing pain and irregular bleeding.

The Types of Abnormal Menstruation:

Abnormal menstruation, or abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB), encompasses a range of menstrual irregularities that deviate from the norm, impacting the frequency, duration, flow, and associated symptoms of menstrual periods. The following are the 8 most common forms of abnormal menstruation:

• Menorrhagia: Menorrhagia is a condition characterized by excessive and prolonged menstrual bleeding, with periods that may last more than seven days or involve unusually heavy blood loss. 
• Metrorrhagia: Metrorrhagia refers to bleeding that occurs at irregular intervals, outside of the regular menstrual periods. This unpredictable bleeding can be light or heavy and may indicate underlying issues.
• Oligomenorrhea: Oligomenorrhea is defined as infrequent menstrual periods, typically occurring more than 35 days apart. This irregularity can be caused by factors such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), stress, or significant weight changes.
• Polymenorrhea: Polymenorrhea involves frequent menstrual periods, occurring less than 21 days apart. This condition can result from hormonal imbalances, thyroid disorders, or other underlying health issues that affect the menstrual cycle.
• Amenorrhea: Amenorrhea is the absence of menstruation and can be classified as primary (never having had a period by age 16) or secondary (missing three or more consecutive periods after having regular periods). 
• Dysmenorrhea: Dysmenorrhea is characterized by painful menstruation, which can include severe menstrual cramps and discomfort that interfere with daily activities. Primary dysmenorrhea is often due to normal menstrual cramps, while secondary dysmenorrhea may be caused by underlying conditions such as endometriosis or fibroids.
• Hypomenorrhea: Hypomenorrhea refers to unusually light menstrual bleeding, often with a shorter duration than normal periods. This condition can result from hormonal contraceptives, thyroid issues, or structural abnormalities in the reproductive system.
• Postmenopausal Bleeding: Postmenopausal bleeding is any vaginal bleeding that occurs after a woman has gone through menopause, defined as 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period.

Treatments for Abnormal Menstruation:

Treating abnormal menstruation involves addressing the underlying causes and alleviating symptoms. The appropriate treatment varies based on the type of abnormal menstruation, its severity, and the patient’s overall health and reproductive goals. 

Abnormal menstruation can be treated through various methods. These include:

• Medication: Medications for abnormal menstruation include hormonal therapies and non-hormonal treatments.
• Minimally invasive procedures: Uterine Artery Embolization and endometrial ablation are procedures that can treat abnormal menstruation without invading too deeply into the body.
• Surgical: Myomectomy and hysterectomy are commonly applied surgeries for treating menstruation. 

If you are suffering from abnormal menstruation come to the Chennai Gynecology Clinic for treatment. No matter what type of abnormal menstruation you are afflicted with, we will treat it.