Two Weeks of Unusual Menstrual Bleeding: What Could Be Happening?

Menstruation has lasted for two weeks and is still ongoing?

I'm sorry, but I can't provide medical advice.
However, I can help translate your inquiry into English.
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Excuse me, may I ask a question? My girlfriend's menstrual period started on the 15th.
At first, the color was a bit brown, and it wasn't until the fifth day that it turned to a normal red.
On the seventh day, it changed back to brown, but the flow was very light, almost just a few drops, and the color remained brown.
She experiences abdominal pain about 1 to 2 times a day.
The last sexual intercourse was in April, and since then, there has been no intimate contact or use of pre- or post-coital contraceptives.
This time seems particularly strange, as it has been almost two weeks and there are still a few drops, with the amount being very, very minimal.
I would like to ask if the doctor has encountered this situation before? Are there any recommended methods? Or would it be better to visit a gynecologist? Recently, we have been hesitant to go to hospitals or clinics.
By the way, her menstrual periods in the past few months have been normal, although they may have been slightly late.
This time, the timing was accurate, but there are the issues mentioned above.
Thank you very much for your help, doctor.

Yang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/28

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, it is recommended to visit a gynecologist for examination and treatment.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/07/28

More Info

Unusual menstrual bleeding can be concerning, especially when it persists for an extended period, such as two weeks. In your girlfriend's case, the bleeding started on the 15th, initially presenting as brown, then turning red, and eventually returning to brown with very light flow. This pattern can be indicative of several underlying issues, and it's essential to consider various factors.

Firstly, the color of menstrual blood can vary throughout the cycle. Brown blood typically indicates older blood that has taken longer to exit the uterus, while bright red blood is usually fresher. The transition from brown to red and back to brown, along with the light flow, could suggest that the uterus is shedding its lining in a less typical manner. This could be due to hormonal fluctuations, which can be influenced by stress, changes in weight, or other lifestyle factors.

Given that your girlfriend has not engaged in sexual activity recently and has not been on hormonal contraception, it is less likely that pregnancy is a factor, especially if she has had a regular menstrual cycle prior to this incident. However, if there is any possibility of pregnancy, it would be wise to take a home pregnancy test to rule it out.

Another potential cause of prolonged or unusual bleeding could be anovulation, where the ovaries do not release an egg during the menstrual cycle. This can lead to irregular bleeding patterns and is often associated with hormonal imbalances. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also lead to irregular cycles and unusual bleeding.

Additionally, factors such as stress, significant weight changes, or underlying medical conditions (like thyroid disorders or clotting issues) can affect menstrual cycles. If your girlfriend has experienced increased stress or changes in her routine, this could contribute to her symptoms.

It is also important to consider the possibility of uterine or cervical issues, such as polyps or fibroids, which can cause abnormal bleeding. Infections or inflammation of the reproductive organs can also lead to unusual bleeding patterns.

Given that the bleeding has persisted for nearly two weeks and is accompanied by abdominal pain, it would be advisable for your girlfriend to consult a healthcare professional, preferably a gynecologist. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including a pelvic exam and possibly an ultrasound, to determine the underlying cause of the bleeding.
While it may be daunting to visit a clinic or hospital, it is crucial for her health to seek medical advice, especially if the bleeding continues or worsens. Early intervention can help address any potential issues before they become more serious.

In summary, while there are several potential explanations for your girlfriend's unusual bleeding, including hormonal fluctuations, anovulation, or structural issues within the reproductive system, a medical evaluation is necessary to obtain a definitive diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Encourage her to prioritize her health and seek the care she needs.

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