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Abnormal Bleeding Specialist

Martin, Lee & Page OBGYN

OBGYNs located in Memphis, TN

Vaginal bleeding that persists for more than a week, is heavy or painful, or occurs when you are pregnant, prepubertal, or postmenopausal requires immediate medical attention. The caring and supportive specialists at Martin, Lee & Page OBGYN in Memphis, Tennessee, diagnose and treat abnormal bleeding using state-of-the-art techniques. If you’re experiencing abnormal bleeding, call for an appointment or use the online booking form.

Abnormal Bleeding Q & A

Why am I bleeding so heavily?

Unexpected, abnormally heavy, or abnormally long-lasting vaginal bleeding that is not part of your monthly menstrual period may be a sign of a serious underlying condition that requires immediate treatment.

Causes of abnormal vaginal bleeding include:

  • Cancer of the reproductive organs
  • Uterine fibroids or polyps
  • Unbalanced hormones
  • Thyroid problems

Abnormal vaginal bleeding is especially concerning if you are pregnant, postmenopausal, or prepubertal (have not yet had a period).

How do you determine the cause of abnormal bleeding?

When you present with abnormal vaginal bleeding, your gynecologist performs a thorough examination, which may include:

  • A pelvic exam
  • Blood tests
  • Imaging tests, such as an ultrasound of your uterus

They may also recommend an endometrial biopsy.

What is an endometrial biopsy?

The endometrium is the lining of your uterus. During an endometrial biopsy, your doctor takes a sample of endometrial tissue and sends it to a laboratory for evaluation.

During the procedure, you lie down on your back with your feet in the stirrups — just as you would for a Pap smear or pelvic exam. Your doctor then inserts a speculum into your vagina to visualize your cervix, cleans and numbs the area, and uses a flexible catheter to suction out a small amount of tissue from inside the uterus.

An endometrial biopsy is a simple, 15-minute, in-office procedure. You do not need anesthesia but may wish to take over-the-counter pain medication about 30 minutes beforehand. After your procedure, you may have some slight spotting and cramping.

Alert your doctor if you are pregnant or suspect you might be, because an endometrial biopsy could cause a miscarriage. You should not have an endometrial biopsy if you have pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).

How long does it take to get my results?

Your doctor sends your biopsy to a lab, where it’s examined for the presence of abnormal cells. Your results are ready in about a week. Your doctor then meets with you to discuss your results and diagnosis, go over treatment options, and answer any questions you have.

If you have abnormal bleeding, don’t wait — call the supportive staff at Martin, Lee & Page OBGYN or book an appointment online.