Do you experience vaginal bleeding that occurs outside of your regular period? If you do, the professionals at Idea Gynecology, LLC, are specialists in treating irregular periods in McDonough. Led by Lilian Schapiro, MD, and Kathryn Garren, WHNP, the team at Ideal Gynecology, LLC diagnoses and treats women who are affected by irregular periods.
What are Irregular periods?
Irregular periods mean vaginal bleeding that occurs outside your regular period, including:
- Periods that significantly vary in span
- Very heavy periods
- Vaginal bleeding or spotting after sexual intercourse
- vaginal bleeding or spotting between menstrual cycles
A menstrual cycle that takes less than 21 days or more than 40 days can also be termed as an irregular period. The menstrual cycle is calculated from day one of your period to the first day of your next period. The standard menstrual cycle takes 28 days but can range somewhere from 21 to 35 days in adults and 21 to 45 in adolescents. A typical period lasts between two days and one week.
Causes of Irregular periods
An irregular period can happen at any time and can be caused by various underlying problems or factors, including
- Hormonal disorders
Irregular periods can result from initiating or terminating hormonal birth control, polycystic ovary syndrome, or a thyroid condition. Also, your irregular periods can be caused by post-menstrual hormone replacement therapy.
- Noncancerous growths
Various noncancerous growths can result in irregular periods. Cervical, uterine, and endometrial polyps can result in heavy bleeding or spotting. Your irregular periods can also result from uttering thyroids.
- Pregnancy
An irregular period can sometimes indicate an ectopic pregnancy. Some females experience irregular periods during their early pregnancy stages due to fluctuations in hormone levels. If you are experiencing severe pelvic pain and have tested positive for pregnancy, you should consult your health care provider immediately. Any vaginal bleeding experienced by a pregnant woman is a reason to schedule an appointment at Ideal Gynecology, LLC.
- Infections
Various sexually transmitted infections, cancerous conditions, and other infections can result in irregular periods, including pelvic inflammatory disease, vaginitis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea, among others. Irregular periods can be a sign of a precancerous condition known as endometrial hyperplasia, vaginal cancer, ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, or cervical cancer.
Irregular period treatment
The treatment of irregular periods needs an accurate diagnosis. When you visit your Ideal Gynecology, LLC, provider with abnormal vaginal bleeding, they will go through your medical history and conduct a comprehensive physical examination. In some instances, there might be laboratory tests, endometrial biopsy, or an ultrasound.
An endometrial ablation, a polypectomy, hormonal birth control, or an IUD with progesterone might be the right therapies to address your irregular periods. Some patients get prescription drugs designed to regulate heavy bleeding. Depending on your cause of bleeding, you might qualify for an endometrial ablation or a progesterone IUD.
The team at Ideal Gynecology, LLC, understands that patients have a choice about their wellness and health. They will provide you with all the information you need to make the right choice.
To learn more about what causes your irregular periods and get treated, schedule an online appointment today or call your nearest Ideal Gynecology, LLC, office today.