New Delhi: There are many problems related to women’s health, which are often ignored considering them normal. One of these is vaginal bleeding other than periods. Many times, women consider it to be an effect of hormonal changes or fatigue and delay consulting a doctor. However, this problem can also be a sign of serious health conditions in some cases. Abnormal bleeding, especially after the age of 40, should not be taken lightly. Major problems can be avoided with timely diagnosis and proper treatment.
What is abnormal bleeding?
When a woman has bleeding between two periods, excessive bleeding after having physical relations, more periods than normal or bleeding even after menopause, then it is considered abnormal bleeding. Some women may experience light or heavy bleeding even during pregnancy. This problem sometimes appears only in the form of spotting, while in some cases the bleeding can be quite heavy. If this situation is happening again and again then it is important to consult a doctor.
Effect of hormonal changes on periods
Women’s menstrual process is mainly controlled by the hormones estrogen and progesterone. When the balance of these hormones gets disturbed, the inner lining of the uterus is affected and irregular bleeding may begin.
Hormonal imbalance can occur due to many reasons, such as-
being under constant stress
sudden weight gain or loss
over exercising
use of contraceptive drugs
adolescence or menopause
In these circumstances, the cycle of periods may be affected and the problem of bleeding may be seen from time to time.
Infection can also be the reason
Sometimes, there may be a problem of bleeding due to infection in the vagina or cervix. Yeast infection, bacterial infection or sexually transmitted infection (STI) can be the main reasons for this. Due to infection, swelling and irritation increases, due to which bleeding starts.
Along with this, some other symptoms may also appear-
itching or burning
smelly discharge
pain while urinating
discomfort during sexual intercourse
Diseases related to abnormal bleeding
Some health problems can also cause abnormal bleeding. If there is pain, weakness or abnormal discharge in the stomach or pelvic area along with bleeding, then immediate examination should be done.
Fibroids: Non-cancerous lumps forming in the uterus, which can cause heavy bleeding and pain.
Polyps: Small bulges forming in the uterus or cervix, which cause bleeding from time to time.
Endometriosis: In this condition, cells like the lining of the uterus start growing in other parts of the body, causing pain and bleeding.
PCOS: This hormonal problem can make periods irregular and cause bleeding in between.
Take bleeding seriously during pregnancy
Light bleeding can sometimes be normal during early pregnancy, but heavy bleeding can be a danger sign. This may indicate miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy or other complications. Therefore, if any kind of abnormal bleeding occurs during pregnancy, you should immediately contact the doctor.
Lifestyle also affects
Women’s daily routine and mental health also affect the menstrual cycle. Not getting enough sleep, stress, unbalanced diet and excessive exercise can disturb hormonal balance. The risk of this problem can be reduced to a great extent by adopting a healthy lifestyle.
Keep an eye on bleeding patterns
There can be many reasons behind bleeding other than periods. In some cases it is a part of normal hormonal changes, but sometimes it can also be an early sign of some serious disease. Therefore it is not right to ignore it.
If there is frequent bleeding, excessive bleeding, severe pain in the pelvic area, dizziness or weakness, bleeding after menopause or bleeding during pregnancy, then you should immediately get yourself checked by a doctor. Timely identification and proper treatment plays an important role in protecting women’s health.
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