Dysfunctional uterine bleeding

A better informed woman can handle situations better.

 

Except during the menstrual period, bleeding from the vagina can be disturbing for the woman. But not necessarily so all the time and a better-informed woman would be more confident in dealing with the situation.

Bleeding apart from the cycle could occur due to the following reasons — if it occurs in a young girl below the age of 10 years it is called as precocious puberty; in a pregnant woman if it occurs as a spotting it is not necessarily a cause for concern. But if it is frank bleeding it could be a sign of miscarriage and calls for attention. If it is after 12 weeks of pregnancy it could be due to the placental position in the womb. Even after an abortion or after delivery till the products of conception are completely evacuated there could be bleeding.

During normal physiological functions of the body like ovulation at about the 14th day of the cycle there could be spotting and should not worry a woman too much. Hormonal pills as contraceptives on some occasions are known to cause such bleeding. Intrauterine devices as a contraception can also lead to irritation. Fibroids in the uterus, polyps in the tract are known to cause excessive bleeding. Any infection of the genital tract of the cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries can also cause spotting which could be evident after intercourse.

In a woman who has not had bleeding for more than 12 months and is through to menopause, any occurrence of bleeding should be investigated. Even chronic undesirable growths like cancer too can cause bleeding. Sexually transmitted diseases can also cause bleeding and cramping.

As far as the treatment is concerned once the cause is investigated and ascertained, appropriate measures can be taken. Any endocrinal changes need to be looked for in case of a girl who has onset of menses before the age of 10 years. Secale cor, Sabina, Caulophyllum are remedies which are good for miscarriage , incomplete expulsion of products of conception. Pulsatilla, Acid nit, Bovista are remedies which correct the inter-menstrual bleeding. Caladium, Thuja, Clematis can be of help in inflammatory and infectious diseases of the pelvis. Menopausal women who have bleeding are helped by Sepia, Lachesis, Sang can etc. Excessive bleeding due to polyps and fibroids can be corrected by Thlapsi, Millefolium, Ustilago etc. Just an occurrence of vaginal bleeding should not upset a woman and if it recurs or profuse should undergo detailed investigations and if necessary appropriate treatment should be undertaken.