It is normal to have menstrual bleeding for up to seven days. Abnormal bleeding can occur if periods are not regular, when bleeding patterns change or when bleeding lasts longer that normal.

There are a number of causes of bleeding; some dependent on age, and some not dependent on age. One typical cause is a hormonal imbalance; too much estrogen or not enough progesterone. Another cause can be the result of a thyroid problem. A third typical cause of bleeding is polyps or fibroids in the uterus. These causes can be addressed medically with birth control pills, progesterone or estrogen medications or with an adjustment to your thyroid medication.

Women in their 20’s and 30’s may have abnormal bleeding due to pregnancy issues. Some birth control pills can cause excessive bleeding. The early months of pregnancy can also cause bleeding.

Women in their 40’s and 50’s may have months when they don’t ovulate, causing abnormal bleeding. Thickening of the lining of the uterus can cause bleeding. This type of thickening must be monitored since it could develop into uterine cancer.

After menopause, it is typically the hormonal imbalance and hormone replacement therapy which causes abnormal bleeding. There are also many other problems which can cause such bleeding.

There are a wide variety of treatment plans.

Hormone Therapy consists of oral contraceptives or other medications that treat hormonal imbalances.  This therapy usually must be continued in order to remain effective.

Dilation and curettage (D&C) is a surgical procedure that involves scraping the inside of the uterus. 

Endometrial Ablation is a minimally invasive surgical treatment that can be done in the office and is available at The Pocatello Women’s Health Clinic.  This should be done if you do not plan on having children in the future.

The first step is to make an appointment with your provider to discuss symptoms and treatments.  They are dependent on the cause of the bleeding. Once the bleeding is properly diagnosed, your provider will discuss what treatment options should be considered.