An estimated 1% of women in the United States experience abnormal menstrual bleeding, but that number may be much higher because many don’t report their problems. At his practice, J. Shan Young, MD, gynecologist Johnny Young, MD, and his skilled team offer medical and surgical treatment options for abnormal bleeding at their welcoming office in Anniston, Alabama. If you’re concerned about abnormal bleeding, call the office or book an appointment online today.
A typical menstrual cycle is 24-38 days long, with up to eight days of bleeding. Abnormal uterine bleeding may include any of the following:
Women of all ages can experience abnormal bleeding, but it’s especially common in adolescents and premenopausal women. If any of the above situations apply to you, the caring practitioners at J. Shan Young, MD, can help.
Many issues can cause abnormal uterine bleeding, some of which are more serious than others. The team at J. Shan Young, MD, treats a wide range of problems that can cause abnormal bleeding, including:
Abnormal uterine bleeding may also be a warning sign of a serious medical condition, such as uterine or cervical cancer.
First, your provider asks about your medical history and menstrual cycle. It’s helpful to keep track of your periods, including the dates, length, and type of flow. You can do this on a calendar or smartphone app and bring the information to your appointment.
They also perform a physical and pelvic exam. Depending on what they observe, your provider may order testing, such as:
These tests help the team at J. Shan Young, MD, to determine the underlying cause of the abnormal bleeding so they can recommend the most appropriate treatment.
The team offers a variety of medical and surgical treatment options for abnormal bleeding. Depending on your specific condition, treatment may include:
Medication management is usually the first line of treatment for abnormal bleeding. This may include hormonal therapies or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen.
This procedure destroys the endometrium, which is the inner lining of the uterus. Endometrial ablation makes future pregnancies unlikely, so it’s used for women who have completed their families. If pregnancy does occur, it can lead to life-threatening complications, so women who undergo this procedure need to use birth control.
A hysterectomy involves surgically removing the uterus. Dr. Young specializes in minimally invasive laparoscopic hysterectomies.
Don’t hesitate to call the office of J. Shan Young, MD, or book an appointment online today to find relief from abnormal bleeding.