Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding

1. Menstrual Disorders: Irregular periods, heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), or missed periods can be due to hormonal imbalances or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
2. Pregnancy Complications: Abnormal bleeding during pregnancy may indicate a miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or placental problems like placenta previa.
3. Uterine Fibroids: Non-cancerous growths in the uterine wall can cause heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding.
4. Endometrial Polyps: Small growths in the uterine lining may lead to irregular or heavy bleeding.
5. Infections: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can cause bleeding along with other symptoms.
6. Menopause: As women approach menopause, hormonal fluctuations can lead to irregular bleeding.
7. Hormonal Contraceptives: Birth control methods like IUDs or oral contraceptives can sometimes cause spotting or irregular bleeding.
8. Cervical or Uterine Cancer: Abnormal vaginal bleeding may be an early sign of cervical or uterine cancer.
9. Medications: Certain medications, like blood thinners or hormone therapy, can cause vaginal bleeding as a side effect.
10. Stress: Emotional or physical stress can disrupt hormonal balance and menstrual patterns.
11. Thyroid Disorders: Thyroid dysfunction can affect menstrual cycles and cause irregular bleeding.
12. Coagulation Disorders: Conditions like von Willebrand disease or thrombocytopenia can lead to excessive bleeding.
13. Iatrogenic Causes: Medical procedures, such as dilation and curettage (D&C) or certain surgeries, can result in post-procedural bleeding.

Any woman experiencing abnormal vaginal bleeding should consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. Proper diagnosis and treatment depend on identifying the specific underlying cause, which can range from benign hormonal imbalances to more serious conditions like cancer.