If you’re experiencing changes in your menstrual cycles related to bleeding, it’s important to find out why. Your women’s health specialist can likely see you for an emergency menstrual bleeding appointment in Virginia, but sometimes it’s better to go to the ER depending on your symptoms. How do you know when to go to the hospital? Here’s the scoop, plus what could be causing changes to your flow and other helpful info.
What Is Considered Abnormal Menstrual Bleeding?
This simply refers to any atypical bleeding during your normal cycle. When it comes to bleeding, it can refer to the duration, consistency, and/or flow.
What Can Cause It?
The truth is, without an evaluation by a healthcare professional, there’s no way to tell for sure. Here are common causes for unusual bleeding during your period, though this is not a substitute for medical advice.
- Hormonal imbalances: Fluctuations in hormones, including estrogen and progesterone, can disrupt your normal cycle.
- Uterine fibroids: Noncancerous growths in the uterus, fibroids that can cause changes in the menstrual flow. Depending on their size and location, they can lead to heavy and / or prolonged periods.
- Endometrial polyps: These are growths in the lining of the uterus (endometrium) that can result in irregular bleeding. Polyps can cause heavier and / or more frequent menstrual bleeding.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): An infection of one or more of your reproductive organs, PID is often caused by a sexually transmitted infection (STI). In addition to pain, it can result in irregular bleeding.
- Intrauterine devices (IUDs): While IUDs are an effective means of contraception, some women experience changes in menstrual bleeding, including heavier or irregular periods.
- Certain medications: Some medications, such as anticoagulants or hormonal treatments, can affect menstrual bleeding.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): A common hormonal disorder, PCOS can cause irregular periods due to an imbalance in reproductive hormones.
- Thyroid disorders: Conditions affecting the thyroid, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, can disrupt hormones and lead to abnormal bleeding.
- Blood clotting disorders: Disorders that affect your body’s natural blood clotting ability can result in heavy and/or prolonged bleeding.
- Cervical or uterine cancer: While less common, abnormal bleeding can be a symptom of cancer, especially in postmenopausal women.
- Stress or other lifestyle factors: Physical or emotional stress, strenuous exercise/ changes to your workout routines, significant weight changes, and changes in sleep impact hormonal balance and menstrual regularity.
- Perimenopause and menopause: During the transition to menopause (perimenopause) and in menopause, hormonal fluctuations can cause irregular periods, including heavier bleeding.
When Should an Emergency Menstrual Bleeding Appointment in Virginia Not Wait? Go to the ER for the Following
Seeking urgent care is crucial when the bleeding is one or more of the following:
- Accompanied by clots larger in size than a quarter
- Accompanied by severe abdominal pain, dizziness or fainting, or signs of shock
- Profuse (soaking through one or more pads/tampons per hour for several hours in a row)
- Prolonged (extending beyond your typical menstrual cycle in length, especially if it’s longer than seven days)
- Heavy after giving birth or a miscarriage
In the context of pregnancy, especially if bleeding is accompanied by intense pain, seeking emergency care promptly is essential. These symptoms may indicate life-threatening conditions that require immediate evaluation and intervention.
When in doubt or when symptoms are severe, you should prioritize your health and seek prompt medical attention for a professional assessment.
Turn to the Women’s Health Specialists at Annandale Ob-Gyn for Comprehensive Care
If you need an emergency menstrual bleeding appointment in Virginia that doesn’t require immediate attention, call us today at 703-642-7522 to schedule. Otherwise, call 911 or head to the nearest ER for prompt attention.
