Irregular vaginal bleeding happens for many reasons. It could be something as simple as too much stress or be due to an underlying medical condition like endometriosis or uterine fibroids.
Since March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, we want to focus on this condition. Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the inside uterine lining grows elsewhere. The excess tissue often causes pain and heavy menstrual bleeding, as well as bleeding between periods.
If you're experiencing irregular bleeding and need treatment, turn to Dr. John Paul Roberts, who provides OB/GYN care at his practice in Plano, Texas. Dr. Roberts performs pelvic exams, ultrasounds, and other diagnostic testing to find the cause of abnormal vaginal bleeding.
In endometriosis, the endometrial tissue reacts to hormones just as it does in uterine lining, worsening period symptoms.
This excess tissue usually grows around the reproductive organs. It may appear on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or uterus. It can also grow behind the uterus or on the bladder and intestines.
Irregular vaginal bleeding is one of the hallmark symptoms of endometriosis. Examples of irregular vaginal bleeding from endometriosis include:
Irregular bleeding is scary, especially when you don't know the cause. There are other reasons for irregular bleeding, so seek treatment immediately to avoid complications.
Abnormal vaginal bleeding is only one of the symptoms of endometriosis. Because it shares symptoms with other conditions, only a medical professional like Dr. Roberts can accurately diagnose it.
The most prevalent symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain. The pain may come and go or be constant. It usually worsens right before and during your period due to hormonal changes.
If you have significant pelvic pain and vaginal bleeding, you may have endometriosis. Other signs and symptoms to look for include:
Although many women experience these symptoms, some don't have any signs of endometriosis. The amount of tissue growing outside of the uterus lining doesn't always correlate to symptoms; some women have mild endometriosis and severe symptoms, while others have severe endometriosis and no symptoms.
Endometriosis is one of the leading causes of irregular vaginal bleeding, but it's not the only one. Dr. Roberts carefully evaluates your symptoms, pertinent history, and diagnostic tests to determine if endometriosis is the cause of irregular bleeding.
Other issues that can also lead to irregular bleeding during or between periods include:
Because there are many causes of irregular vaginal bleeding, talk to Dr. Roberts about all your symptoms to ensure the proper diagnosis and treatment.
Call our office in Plano, Texas, today to schedule an appointment or request a consultation using our convenient online booking tool.
