Are you worried about irregular bleeding? Bleeding can occur due to a variety of factors and doesn't necessarily mean you have a serious
health problem. Dr. Eric Bentolila provides reproductive health care for women of all ages in the Ridgewood, NJ, area.
Why do I have irregular bleeding?
Irregular bleeding can be caused by:
- Starting a New Birth Control Method: Spotting between periods is common if you begin using a hormonal means of birth control. It may also occur if you stop using hormonal birth control.
- Vaginal Dryness: Dry tissues are easily irritated and may bleed. Inserting a tampon or having sex can cause bleeding if you suffer from vaginal dryness. Although dryness is particularly common in post-menopausal women, it can happen at any age.
- Infections: Bleeding may occur if you have a sexually transmitted infection, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea; pelvic inflammatory disease; inflammation of the cervix or bacterial vaginosis.
- Miscarriage: Call your OB/GYN if you're pregnant and begin bleeding, as bleeding may be a sign of a miscarriage.
- Ectopic Pregnancy: An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg begins to grow in the Fallopian tubes or another area outside the uterus. Bleeding and pelvic pain are common symptoms of this potentially life-threatening condition.
- Peri-menopause: Heavy bleeding and spotting may be more likely to occur during peri-menopause.
- Uterine Fibroids or Polyps: These benign growths won't harm your health, but they can cause heavy bleeding.
- Thyroid Issues: Thyroid problems can create hormonal imbalances and cause spotting, fatigue, weight gain, and other symptoms.
- Medication Side Effects: Certain prescription medications, such as anticoagulants, tranquilizers, tamoxifen, antidepressants, and anti-inflammatories, may trigger spotting or heavy bleeding during your period.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Abnormal bleeding, spotting, unwanted hair growth, weight gain, and infertility can all be signs of PCOS.
- Health Conditions: Kidney or liver disease, celiac disease or a blood clotting disorder may be to blame for your irregular bleeding.
- Cancer: Abnormal bleeding can sometimes be a symptom of cervical, uterine, ovarian or endometrial cancer.
A visit to your Ridgewood OB/GYN can help you determine the source of your bleeding. Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may recommend one or more tests to pinpoint the cause.
Don't ignore irregular bleeding. Call Ridgewood, NJ, OB/GYN Dr. Bentolila at (201) 447-1700 to schedule an appointment.