Emergency Vaginal Bleeding in Annandale

Vaginal bleeding can occur at any stage of life. It can be normal, but that doesn’t make it any less alarming. As a woman, it’s important you know the difference between what’s normal and can wait until your next appointment for gynecological services, and what constitutes emergency vaginal bleeding that needs immediate attention.

What Is Emergency Vaginal Bleeding?

Vaginal bleeding is a normal part of your menstrual cycle. 40 milliliters of blood is the average menstrual blood that passes during the course of a four- to seven-day cycle. More than that can signal a problem.

An abnormal period presents itself as heavy bleeding for more than eight days, severe cramping, fatigue, and / or or bleeding / spotting between your periods. It’s important to seek immediate care from your gynecologist or the ER outside of your provider’s business hours if any of these symptoms occur.

There are common causes of abnormal vaginal bleeding for non-pregnant women including:

• Certain types of cancer
• Endometriosis
• Hormonal imbalances
• Infections
• Medications
• Some forms of contraception
• Uterine polyps or fibroids

Pregnancy has its own challenges. While any of the above-mentioned causes can be present while pregnant, there are reasons for emergency vaginal bleeding that require immediate medical attention.

Miscarriages, ectopic pregnancy, molar pregnancy, placenta previa, and uterine rupture are just some of the causes of vaginal bleeding during pregnancy. It’s always best to err on the side of caution if you experience bleeding while pregnant and seek immediate care for diagnosis and treatment.

When Should I Call My Doctor About Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding?

Any abnormal bleeding should be addressed by your doctor right away. If you are pregnant, it’s important you seek immediate help as some causes of vaginal bleeding can be life threatening.

How Is the Cause of Vaginal Bleeding Diagnosed?

To determine your course of treatment for emergency vaginal bleeding, your provider must first determine the cause. You’ll be asked about your general health and the symptoms you’re experiencing. Please be thorough with your descriptions.

Your doctor will likely give you a physical examination. This can include feeling your abdomen and a vaginal exam to examine your cervix. They might also swab your vagina to test for infection. You might be given a pregnancy test, and diagnostic testing such as ultrasound may be performed.

How Is Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding Treated?

Your treatment for vaginal bleeding depends on your doctor’s findings. Medications such as birth control, hormone therapy, and NSAIDs are often successful.

In some cases, surgery might be necessary. A hysteroscopy is done to remove atypical structures (fibroids, tumors, etc). A myomectomy can be done to remove fibroids but allows you to keep your uterus intact.

It might also be suggested you have a hysterectomy. This can mean removing part of your uterus leaving the cervix intact (partial hysterectomy) or removing the entire uterus and cervix (full hysterectomy). This is typically reserved as a last resort to stop vaginal bleeding.

How Can I Reduce My Risk of Emergency Vaginal Bleeding?

Unfortunately, there are some causes of emergency vaginal bleeding that can’t be prevented. However, it is possible to reduce your risk.

A healthy lifestyle and maintaining your ideal weight can help prevent hormonal imbalances. Safe sex practices can reduce your risk of infections.

Ask your OB/GYN what you can do to stay healthy and minimize your risk of emergency vaginal bleeding.

Where Is the Best Place to Get Treatment for Emergency Vaginal Bleeding in Annandale?

From gynecology to obstetrics, Annandale Ob-Gyn is a full-service facility. We have state-of-the-art technology which allows our board-certified doctors to safely and successfully perform many procedures onsite.

Our goal is to provide you with the highest quality personalized care in a warm and comforting environment. If you are experiencing abnormal vaginal bleeding, we encourage you to not delay treatment.

Contact us at 703-642-7522 if you are ready to schedule your appointment or if you have questions. We’re here to help!