Many women experience
gynecological bleeding that is unrelated to their menstrual periods. While most
causes of vaginal and uterine bleeding are related to benign causes, some may
be linked to serious medical disorders. If you need an obgyn
doctor becker mn that
has gynecological specialists who can evaluate and treat your symptoms. Learn
about some causes and treatments of gynecological bleeding by reviewing the
following.
Aspirin
Aspirin is often implicated in abnormal bleeding, including bleeding during
menstrual periods. Aspirin makes your blood platelets less effective at
clotting normally because it decreases platelet aggregation. Gynecological
bleeding is uncommon when aspirin is taken infrequently, however, if your
physician has prescribed daily aspirin therapy to reduce your risk for a heart
attack or certain cancers, you may bleed between your periods. If you
experience gynecological bleeding, see your doctor, however, do not stop taking
your aspirin if it was prescribed to protect your heart, unless your doctor
tells you to do so
Vaginal Atrophy
Another common cause of gynecological bleeding is vaginal atrophy. It refers to the thinning of the
vaginal tissues, usually as a result of low estrogen levels. It is most common
in menopausal women; however, it can develop in women of any age. It can also
develop after childbirth and as a side effect of certain medications. In
addition to bleeding, vaginal atrophy can cause urinary burning, vaginal
dryness, pain during sexual intercourse, frequent urinary infections, and
vaginal discharge. Avoid using petroleum jelly or mineral oil because they can
both raise your risk for a vaginal infection and may damage the latex on
diaphragms or condoms. Your doctor may prescribe topical hormone replacement
therapy to stimulate epithelial cellular repair of the vaginal walls
Other interventions include regular exercise to help promote circulation and
blood flow of the vaginal area and nutritional intervention. Certain foods such
as fish and those that mimic the effects of estrogen may also help treat
vaginal atrophy. Foods that can mimic estrogen’s effects include soy products,
sesame seeds, and flaxseed
Endometrial Hyperplasia
A gynecological disorder known as endometrial hyperplasia is a condition in which the lining of
your uterus, also known as the endometrium, thickens. It is not cancer,
however, in some cases, the endometrial tissue can undergo malignant
transformation. It is typically caused by high estrogen levels and low progesterone.
It is common in post-menopausal women; however, it can also develop in obese
women or in women who fail to ovulate
While abnormal bleeding is the most common symptom, vaginal discharge can also
occur. Endometrial hyperplasia may also cause an abnormal Pap test. If your
doctor believes you have an abnormal thickening of the uterine lining, he or
she may recommend an endometrial biopsy to look for abnormal cellular changes.
While progesterone therapy is usually the most common treatment option for endometrial
hyperplasia, your physician may recommend a hysterectomy, or the removal of
your uterus, if you are past menopause. If you are pre-menopausal and
considering having children, progesterone therapy may the best option for you,
as a hysterectomy will prevent you from getting pregnant
