Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
Answers for bleeding that isn't normal for you.
Bleeding between periods, unusually heavy flow, periods that last longer than a week, or bleeding after menopause are all worth having evaluated. Abnormal uterine bleeding is common — and in most cases, very treatable once the cause is understood. Evaluating it is one of Dr. Fan's core areas of focus.
Causes range from hormonal shifts and fibroids to polyps, thyroid issues, or changes in the uterine lining. Finding the source usually starts with your history, an exam, and often an in-office ultrasound. In some cases, a hysteroscopy or endometrial biopsy provides a clearer picture.
Treatment is matched to the cause and your goals — from medication and hormonal options to minimally invasive procedures like endometrial ablation when appropriate. The aim is to get you back to a normal, predictable rhythm.
Understanding abnormal uterine bleeding
Abnormal uterine bleeding simply means bleeding that's different from your normal pattern — heavier, longer, more frequent, unpredictable, or occurring at times it shouldn't, such as after menopause. What's 'normal' varies from person to person, which is why the change matters more than any single number.
It's one of the most common reasons women see a gynecologist, and it's rarely something to face alone or ignore. In most cases, understanding the cause leads directly to effective treatment.
Signs and symptoms
Consider an evaluation if you experience:
- Periods that soak through a pad or tampon every hour
- Bleeding that lasts longer than seven days
- Bleeding or spotting between periods
- Bleeding after intercourse
- Any bleeding after menopause
- Periods so heavy they disrupt your daily life
Bleeding after menopause always warrants evaluation, even if it's light or happens only once.
How we evaluate it
Finding the cause usually begins with a detailed history of your bleeding pattern, a physical exam, and often an in-office ultrasound to look at the uterus and its lining. Depending on what's found, Dr. Fan may recommend a hysteroscopy — a look inside the uterus — or an endometrial biopsy for a clearer picture.
These steps are about answers, not alarm. Most causes of abnormal bleeding are identifiable and treatable once seen clearly.
Treatment options
Treatment is matched to the cause and your goals, and may include:
- Medication or hormonal options to regulate bleeding
- Treatment of underlying causes like polyps or fibroids
- Endometrial ablation to reduce heavy bleeding, when appropriate
- Minimally invasive procedures with faster recovery
- Management of related conditions such as anemia
The aim is to get you back to a normal, predictable rhythm — and to feel like yourself again.
Heavy or irregular bleeding is common — but it's not something you simply have to live with.
When to see Dr. Fan
Make an appointment if you have:
- Unusually heavy or prolonged periods
- Bleeding between periods or after intercourse
- Any bleeding after menopause
- Bleeding that's affecting your energy or daily life
Your visit, step by step.
- Step 1
History
Detailed history of your bleeding pattern.
- Step 2
Evaluate
Exam and in-office ultrasound.
- Step 3
Test
Additional testing like hysteroscopy or biopsy if needed.
- Step 4
Plan
A treatment plan built around your goals.
Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: your questions.
Ready to take the next step?
Call us or request an appointment online — we'll match you with the right visit type.