Irregular Menstrual Bleeding: Causes and Solutions

Menorrhagia

I'm sorry to hear about your situation.
Your menstrual cycle has been regular, starting at the beginning of the month and lasting about a week.
However, after your period began on April 2nd and ended after about a week, you experienced bleeding again 2-3 days later.
This time, the bleeding did not come with the usual symptoms of breast tenderness or lower abdominal cramps, and it has continued without stopping until May 2nd.
The flow has mostly been similar to the mid-cycle flow of a typical period, with occasional small blood clots.

You visited a gynecologist on April 19th and received a hemostatic injection, which slightly reduced the bleeding, but it returned to the previous volume within a week.
Due to a busy schedule at work, you haven't been able to visit a larger hospital for further examination, but you are understandably concerned.

It is important to seek medical attention to determine the cause of your prolonged bleeding, especially since it deviates from your normal cycle.
Please consider scheduling an appointment with a healthcare provider as soon as possible for a thorough evaluation.
Thank you.

velette, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/05/02

Dr. Dai Qihan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Please make sure to take the time to return to the clinic for a check-up.

Reply Date: 2009/05/02

More Info

Irregular menstrual bleeding can be a concerning issue, especially for individuals who typically have a regular cycle. There are several potential causes for this change in menstrual patterns, and understanding these can help in determining the appropriate course of action.

One common cause of irregular menstrual bleeding is hormonal imbalance. The menstrual cycle is regulated by a complex interplay of hormones, including estrogen and progesterone. Factors such as stress, significant weight changes, excessive exercise, or underlying medical conditions can disrupt this hormonal balance, leading to irregularities in the menstrual cycle. In your case, the recent stress from work may have contributed to this hormonal fluctuation, resulting in the unexpected bleeding.

Another possible cause could be uterine abnormalities, such as fibroids or polyps. These non-cancerous growths can lead to heavier or prolonged menstrual bleeding. Additionally, conditions like endometriosis, where the tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it, can also cause irregular bleeding and discomfort.
Infections or inflammation of the reproductive organs, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), can also lead to abnormal bleeding. These conditions may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as pelvic pain or unusual discharge.
It is also important to consider the possibility of pregnancy-related issues, including miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, especially if there is any chance of pregnancy.
Given that you have already sought medical attention and received a hemostatic injection, it is a positive step. However, the fact that the bleeding has resumed suggests that further investigation may be necessary. While it can be challenging to find time for medical appointments, it is crucial to prioritize your health. A thorough evaluation by a gynecologist, including a pelvic exam and possibly imaging studies like an ultrasound, can help identify the underlying cause of your irregular bleeding.

In the meantime, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can support your overall well-being. This includes managing stress through relaxation techniques, ensuring a balanced diet rich in nutrients, and engaging in regular physical activity, which can help regulate hormonal levels.
If the bleeding becomes heavy or is accompanied by severe pain, dizziness, or other concerning symptoms, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention.
In summary, irregular menstrual bleeding can stem from various causes, including hormonal imbalances, uterine abnormalities, infections, or pregnancy-related issues. While you have taken a step by consulting a healthcare provider, further evaluation may be necessary to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment. Prioritizing your health and seeking timely medical care is vital for addressing these concerns effectively.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Causes and Solutions

Hello Dr. Chen, I experience my menstrual period every month, but the intervals are less than ten days. My cycles have been irregular, and for the past two months, I have been experiencing continuous bleeding, although the flow is not heavy. What should I do? I am married with ...

Dr. Chen Fuhao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Ms. Yang: Hello, your question is a common issue in general gynecological outpatient clinics, with about one-quarter of women experiencing similar concerns. Modern women face pressures from heavy academic workloads, careers, and household responsibilities, leading to irregular me...

Understanding Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Causes and Solutions

Hello Doctor, I started taking oral contraceptives for menstrual regulation in August of last year, and my menstrual cycle was stable until March of this year when I began experiencing abnormalities. Initially, I had a Pap smear that indicated vaginal inflammation, which has been...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the factors that can affect the menstrual cycle or cause irregular bleeding include age, environment, lifestyle, stress, emotional instability, weight changes, medications, emergency contraceptive pills, diet, polycystic ovary syndrome, uterine or cervical lesions, infecti...

Understanding Irregular Menstruation: Causes, Treatment, and Fertility Concerns

Hello Dr. Jan, I would like to ask you about my menstrual cycle. Since high school and now while studying in a vocational program, my menstrual cycle has been irregular. My periods either come early or I experience prolonged bleeding for a month. What could be the underlying ca...

Dr. Zhan Deqin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
There are many reasons for irregular menstruation in young women, such as abnormal lifestyle and diet, weight loss, and medications. Sometimes it can be due to anovulation or hormonal imbalances. If anovulation is the case, it may affect the chances of conception. It is recommend...

Understanding Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Causes and Solutions

The menstrual cycle has just ended, and it has returned within a few days. What could be the reason for this?

Dr. Wang Jionglang reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: In response to your question, irregular menstruation is primarily caused by hormonal imbalance in the body. The common reasons for this include irregular sleep patterns (staying up late, disrupted circadian rhythm), nutritional imbalances (inconsistent diet, irregular meal...