Abnormal uterine bleeding refers to any bleeding that takes place outside your normal menstrual cycle or after menopause. This could be anything from spotting to heavy bleeding. If you are experiencing this, it is very important to book an appointment with your gynaecologist immediately as it may be masking an underlying problem.
What is it caused by?
There are many reasons for abnormal uterine bleeding, such as:
- You have recently started taking hormonal contraceptives (e.g. implant or injection, intrauterine device, patch, or combined oral pill)
- You have missed any combination contraceptive pills
- You are on the pill and are also sick, have diarrhea or are taking medications that are interfering with the pills
- You missed your pill-free (or patch-free) week
- You are taking emergency contraception
- You have injured your vagina
- You have recently had an abortion. Important: if you are bleeding heavily, please seek immediate medical advice.
- Your reproductive hormones are not working normally, which is common in women approaching the menopause or who have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS).
- Stress
- Cervical Erosions and Chronic Cervicitis
- Bleeding during pregnancy
- Cervical Polyps
- Cervical Cancer
- Uterine Cancer
If you are concerned about the bleeding, please book an appointment with Queen’s Clinic on 020 7935 5540.
