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Abnormal Bleeding Specialist

Lydia Appiah-Dwamena, MD -  - OBGYN

Lydia Appiah-Dwamena, MD

OBGYN located in San Antonio, TX

Abnormal menstrual bleeding isn’t just inconvenient, it can be a sign of a serious health issue. At Palo Alto Women’s Health Center in San Antonio, board-certified OB/GYN Lydia Appiah-Dwamena, MD, evaluates your symptoms and determines the cause to find the right treatment for disruptive periods. If you experience exceptionally heavy periods, infrequent periods, extra long periods, or spotting, call the office or schedule online to find relief.

Abnormal Bleeding Q & A

What defines abnormal menstrual bleeding?

While every woman’s period is different, your menstrual cycle shouldn’t interfere with your normal daily life. Most women’s periods last about five days and occur every 21-35 days. Your bleeding may be considered abnormal if it:

  • Regularly lasts longer than five days
  • Occurs more or less frequently than normal
  • Features spotting between periods
  • Happens regularly after sexual intercourse
  • Is very heavy and is hard to control with feminine hygiene products

Extreme cramping, fatigue, or other disabling symptoms also warrant a visit to Palo Alto Women’s Health Center.

Is abnormal menstrual bleeding always treated?

Abnormal bleeding is extremely disruptive. As a result of your cycle, you may experience:

  • Anxiety
  • Sleep disruption
  • Embarrassment

Plus, abnormal bleeding may be a sign of serious health issues. If you ignore abnormal bleeding, you delay treatment, and your condition may develop into something more serious with additional complications.

Abnormal bleeding can also cause iron-deficient anemia that has other health ramifications. Get treated to avoid this additional health issue.

What are the causes of abnormal menstrual bleeding?

Abnormal bleeding can be a symptom of a variety of medical concerns. Dr. Appiah-Dwamena performs a comprehensive exam and screening tests to determine the cause. Common issues causing your bleeding may be:

  • Uterine fibroids or polyps
  • Endometriosis
  • Problems with an IUD
  • Miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy
  • Hormonal disruption (such as during menopause)
  • Bleeding disorders
  • Certain types of cancer

Determining the cause of abnormal bleeding is the first step in finding relief. You’ll undergo blood tests to check hormone levels and rule out certain blood conditions. Dr. Appiah-Dwamena may recommend an ultrasound to look for uterine polyps or fibroids.

What is the treatment for abnormal menstrual bleeding?

How Dr. Appiah-Dwamena addresses your abnormal bleeding depends on the cause. Usually, she can find a minimally invasive solution, such as changing birth control methods or altering lifestyle habits. Whatever the issue, the team at Palo Alto Women’s Health Center works with you to address abnormal bleeding and find an appropriate treatment plan.

Call the office or schedule using the online tool to take your life back and eliminate the hassle,  frustration, and possible health dangers of abnormal menstrual bleeding.