Metroragia or what is commonly called intermenstrual bleeding, is vaginal bleeding that occurs at irregular intervals and is not related to the menstrual cycle. Even though the blood comes from the uterus, the bleeding does not represent a normal period.
Metroragia is caused by a variety of things, and some of them are harmless. In other cases, metrorrhagia can be a sign of a more serious condition.
Here, we will discuss various important things about metrorrhagia, starting from the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment options, and complications that may arise.
1. Symptoms
metroragia blood illustration (pexels.com/Nataliya Vaitkevich)
When you start bleeding outside of your monthly schedule, there’s a chance you’re experiencing metroragia. This is a condition that is considered abnormal and is called dysfunctional uterine bleeding. That is, this type of bleeding is not associated with the normal functioning of the body.
explained Topline MDsymptoms of metrorrhagia can be:
- Bleeding resembling menstruation.
- When bleeding occurs is unpredictable.
- Menstrual symptoms may not be present at all, they may also be present.
- Bleeding may be heavier than normal menstrual flow.
- Blood may come out in the form of clots.
- May be accompanied by mucus and discharge.
It is important to record all the symptoms you experience and report them when consulting a doctor.
Also Read: Use Menstrual Discs for Sex during Menstruation, Is it Safe?
2. Cause
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There are various causes of metrorrhagia, but the main factor is hormones. During a menstrual period, women go through hormonal changes that affect the lining of the uterus to prepare for the arrival of a fertilized egg. When there is no fertilization of the egg, its lining sheds and leaves the body through the menstrual blood stream. In the case of metrorrhagia, the lining sheds outside the menstrual cycle which interferes with hormone function.
Here are some of the most common reasons that trigger hormonal changes:
- First or last menstruation: When your first period starts or is about to go through menopause, it’s not unusual for your period to break and vaginal bleeding to occur at random times.
- Stress: Emotional and other types of stress can greatly affect menstruation and lead to dysfunctional uterine bleeding.
- Contraception and medication: Unexpected vaginal bleeding may occur with certain birth control pills or other medications.
- Poor diet: Underweight can be accompanied by a complete cessation of the menstrual cycle or the occurrence of intermenstrual bleeding. This is related to a lack of certain food groups.
Metroragia can also signal some additional, more serious conditions developing in the body, such as:
- Endometritis.
- Servicitis.
- Vaginitis.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease.
- Sexually transmitted infection.
- Ovarian cyst.
- Endometriosis.
- Fibroid rahim.
- Thyroid problems.
- Coagulation problems.
- Leukemia.
- PCOS.
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3. Diagnosis
doctor consultation illustration (freepik.com/tirachardz)
As an initial part of diagnosing metrorrhagia, the doctor will ask about your medical history and menstrual cycle. The doctor may also ask you to record days when you bleed or not, including how heavy the bleeding is. You may also have a physical exam.
In addition, according EvergreenHealththe following tests may be required:
- Endometrial biopsy: The doctor takes a tissue sample from the inside of the uterus to then examine it under a microscope.
- Ultrasound scan: Probe An ultrasound is placed on the lower abdomen or in the vagina to get pictures of the uterus, ovaries and pelvis.
- Hysteroscopy: A thin metal tube with a tiny camera is inserted through the vagina and cervix and into the uterus. This allows the doctor to see inside the uterus.
- Sonohysterogram: A liquid is injected into the uterus, then the doctor performs an ultrasound scan. This test allows the doctor to look for problems with the lining of the uterus.
4. Treatment
surgery illustration (pixabay.com/sasint)
The treatment offered varies depending on the cause as well as the patient’s individual needs. According to Verywell Healthtreatment options for metrorrhagia may include:
- Lifestyle changes: Sometimes, metrorrhagia is temporary and responsive to lifestyle changes.
- Hormone therapy: Certain types of hormonal therapy, especially those containing progestins, may be used to treat abnormal bleeding.
- Dilation and curettage: This procedure is recommended for women who have heavy bleeding that is causing other problems, such as anemia. Dilation and curettage involves removing some of the endometrial tissue with a special instrument that is inserted into the uterus through the vagina.
- Treating the underlying health condition: If metroragia is caused by another health condition, it’s important to diagnose and treat that condition.
Also Read: 12 Causes of Abdominal Cramps after Menstruation, Should You See a Doctor?
