​Abnormal Uterine or Vaginal Bleeding

The normal menstrual period of bleeding can last from 2 to 7 days and occurs every 21 to 35 days. Then the cycle begins again. Any imbalance in this process can lead to irregular vaginal bleeding. Abnormal uterine or vaginal bleeding is a broad term used to describe any bleeding from the uterus through the vagina other than the normal menstrual bleeding. This can be experienced as spots of blood between periods or very heavy bleeding that lasts for more than 7 days. ​

There can be different reasons for abnormal uterine or vaginal bleeding. It could be caused by a problem related to the reproductive system, a problem during pregnancy, hormonal issues, infections, certain medications, birth control methods or other medical condition(s) such as fibroids, polyps or certain cancers.​

Some indications of uterine or vaginal bleeding may include:

  • Any bleeding during pregnancy.

  • An increase in the amount of bleeding (heavier than usual) during menstruation and lasts for more than 7 days.

  • Bleeding at irregular intervals, particularly between expected menstrual periods.

  • Any irregular bleeding that occurs in older women who are beginning to stop or have stopped menstruating. 

  • Any irregular bleeding that occurs in young girls who have not started menstruating.​​

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience vaginal bleed during pregnancy.

You should consult a doctor if you are feeling concerned about any changes in your regular menstrual cycle or experience any of the above indications.

Make an appointment with a doctor working with the Women's Health Care Service Line at The Aga Khan University Hospital to seek medical advice.​


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Your time with your doctor maybe limited, so make sure to prepare for your visit beforehand. Here​ are some tips to help get you started. ​​

Before beginning any diagnosis, your doctor will ensure that the vaginal bleeding is not due to pregnancy or a possible miscarriage.

After ruling out that possibility, your doctor may order the following tests based on your age, situation and symptoms:

  • Blood test: to check for blood counts, hormone levels and infection.

  • Ultrasound: provides a picture of the pelvic organs.

  • Hysteroscopy: provides a view of the uterus.

  • Pap smear: cells taken from the cervix are taken and analysed to detect any signs of cancer.

  • Biopsy: tissue taken from the lining of the uterus to detect any abnormalities​.


Based on your diagnosis, the doctor will recommend a suitable course of action to help relieve you of your symptoms. This could include prescribed medications such as hormonal treatments, anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics or others. If necessary, surgery may be recommended.

The Aga Khan University Hospital offers various support services to help with managing or recovering from the disease or condition. These include but are not limited to nutrition, physiotherapy, rehabilitation, specialized clinics and some patient support groups. Your doctor or nurse will advise you accordingly.

The Aga Khan University Hospital offers financial assistance to those who are in need and fulfil the eligibility criteria. For further information, you can contact the Patient Welfare Department. You can find the contact number of the Patient Welfare Department in the 'Important Numbers' section on the website homepage.

The financial counselling staff is available during office hours, at the main PBSD (Patient Business Services Department), to answer your financial queries on treatments' costs and authorize admissions on partial deposit as per hospital policies allow. The financial counsellor in the emergency room is open 24/7. You can find the contact number of the Patient Business Services in the 'Important Numbers' section on the website homepage.​


Your doctor and or nurse will give you specific instructions about the prescribed medication. Please ensure that you take or use the prescribed medicine as advised. It can be dangerous to your health if you self-prescribe. Please inform the doctor or nurse beforehand if you have experienced any adverse reactions to any medications in the past. If you experience any symptoms of drug poisoning, overdose or severe reaction please contact the Pharmacy Service at The Aga Khan University Hospital immediately. You can find the contact number of the Pharmacy Services in the 'Important Numbers' section on the website homepage. ​


 


 

The information provided on our website is for educational purposes and not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should always seek the advice of your doctor or other healthcare professional provider.