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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. 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.
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