Bleeding Outside Menstrual Period... Suspected 'Abnormal Irregular Bleeding'

Daedong Hospital, Drug Therapy for Underlying Disease Treatment... Consider Surgery After Specialist Consultation if Condition Worsens

[Image source=Clipart Korea]

[Asia Economy Yeongnam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Yong-woo] Office worker A was startled when unexpected bleeding occurred outside of her menstrual cycle and visited a gynecology clinic after work. Although a uterine ultrasound examination showed no abnormalities, she was diagnosed with ‘abnormal irregular bleeding’ caused by a temporary hormonal imbalance.

Generally, a woman’s menstrual cycle ranges from 21 to 35 days, with bleeding of 30 to 80 ml. However, if bleeding occurs outside the menstrual cycle, if the amount of bleeding suddenly increases recently, if menstruation lasts more than a week, if blood clots larger than 3 cm are passed, or if iron deficiency anemia is detected in blood tests, ‘abnormal uterine bleeding’ can be suspected.

This abnormal uterine bleeding is caused by gynecological diseases such as cervical polyps, uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, endometriosis, cervical cancer, or it can be classified as functional uterine bleeding caused by hormonal abnormalities without any specific underlying disease, resulting in increased menstrual flow or abnormal bleeding.

Most gynecological diseases such as cervical polyps and cervical cancer are diagnosed through vaginal ultrasound or biopsy, and treatment for the identified cause is prioritized.

Functional uterine bleeding without an identifiable cause accounts for about 50% of abnormal uterine bleeding cases, with hormonal imbalance being the main cause. This can occur due to stress, malnutrition, excessive exercise, obesity, etc., and treatment aimed at restoring normal menstrual cycles, stopping bleeding, and correcting anemia to improve overall quality of life may include medication or surgery.

Dr. Kim Hyung-tae, head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Daedong Hospital, advised, “In cases of functional uterine bleeding, medication is preferred over surgery for various reasons, such as when pregnancy is desired in the future, so it is important to consult thoroughly with a specialist regarding any underlying conditions before proceeding. If pain persists or worsens despite medication, surgery can be considered.”

Functional irregular bleeding can occur temporarily due to hormonal imbalance but may also be a symptom of hormonal disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome. If suspected, it is important to consult a gynecological specialist early to identify the cause.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.