Uterine blood loss outside the menstrual period affects most women and can be dangerous to health
Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB) is characterized by the loss of uterine blood outside the menstrual period. It occurs with abnormality in regularity, volume, frequency or duration. According to information from the Brazilian Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics Associations (Febrasgo), this problem affects 40% of women in the world.
“The menstrual cycle normally has a range of 25 to 35 days. When this cycle is longer or shorter than this period, it is considered abnormal uterine bleeding,” explains Dr. Evelyn Prete, gynecologist, obstetrician and partner-owner of the Alve Medicina clinic.
Causes of abnormal uterine bleeding
The reasons that lead to abnormal uterine bleeding can be diverse. As explained by Dr. Thais Ushikusa, gynecologist, obstetrician and medical manager of women’s health at Bayer Brasil, it can be caused by structural alterations in the anatomy of the uterus, such as fibroids, polyps and adenomyosis. “When there is no structural change, it can be caused by hormonal disordersuse of medication or devices, and coagulation disorders,” he adds.
Still according to the doctor, this is a condition that is difficult to diagnose. “Despite the large number of patients, the diagnosis can take years or even not having an identified or neglected cause”, she says. But in any case, SUA should not be ignored.
It is necessary to look for a gynecologist to investigate the origin of the abnormal bleeding. “If left untreated, this problem can lead to iron deficiency anemia and even bleeding,” points out Dr. Mauricio Abrão, gynecologist, professor of Gynecology at FMUSP and president of the American Association of Laparoscopic Gynecology.
disease symptoms
The main symptom of abnormal uterine bleeding is exactly the loss of uterine blood outside the menstrual period. “It can also happen that patients have small irregular bleeding outside the menstruation period, such as menstrual leaks or even bleeding outside the menstrual period, which can join with the menstrual flow and cause long menstruation”, says Dr. Evelyn Black.
Interference in the patient’s life
This condition can negatively impact the lives of patients. As per Dr. Thais Ushikusa, it can cause:
- social embarrassment when experiencing extravasation of blood;
- need to have to plan the day to day because of the menstrual period;
- fatigue;
- tiredness;
- dizziness;
- anemia;
- worsening of sports performance;
- reduced libido;
- worsening productivity at work.
Treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding
Treatment options for AUB vary from person to person, as the causes of bleeding are different. However, in general, hormonal IUDs, birth control pills and/or anti-inflammatory medications can be used. “In more severe cases, when the medication is not enough, the patient may need to undergo surgery to remove the foci that are causing the abnormal bleeding”, explains Dr. Mauricio Abram.
In addition, depending on the reasons for the bleeding, some changes in the patient’s lifestyle may also be necessary. “Changes of life habits are also important, since uterine bleeding can also have an inflammatory origin. In these cases, we recommend an anti-inflammatory diet”, clarifies Dr. Evelyn Black.
Source: Maxima
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