Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Treatment in Santa Barbara, CA
A normal menstrual cycle occurs every 21–35 days with bleeding lasting 3–7 days on average. Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) refers to any bleeding that falls outside of this pattern — including periods that are too frequent, too heavy, too light, or unpredictable. AUB can be a sign of an underlying condition that warrants evaluation and treatment. At Rashti Women's Care in Santa Barbara, CA, we offer a comprehensive range of diagnosis and treatment options for abnormal uterine bleeding.
Request an AppointmentWhat Counts as Abnormal Uterine Bleeding?
Abnormal uterine bleeding can take several forms, including bleeding between menstrual periods, unusually heavy periods (soaking more than one pad or tampon per hour), periods lasting longer than 7 days, bleeding after sexual intercourse, absence of a period for several months, and postmenopausal bleeding — any vaginal bleeding that occurs after 12 months without a period.
Tracking your cycle — noting its length, duration, and flow — can help your doctor identify what’s irregular or abnormal. The more detailed your records, the better equipped we are to find the underlying cause.
What Causes Abnormal Uterine Bleeding?
There are many potential causes of AUB. Common causes include hormonal imbalances (often related to anovulation), uterine fibroids or polyps, endometriosis or adenomyosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid dysfunction, pelvic infections, certain medications including blood thinners and hormonal contraceptives, and endometrial hyperplasia or, rarely, endometrial cancer.
It’s also worth noting that some abnormal bleeding is situationally expected — such as in girls who have just begun menstruation, women approaching menopause, or women who have recently started hormonal therapy. However, these situations should still be discussed with your doctor.
Diagnosing and Treating Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
At Rashti Women's Care, Dr. Rashti will conduct a thorough evaluation including a physical exam, pelvic ultrasound, blood tests to evaluate hormone levels and thyroid function, and in some cases an endometrial biopsy or hysteroscopy to examine the uterine lining directly.
We provide a large array of treatment options for AUB, tailored to the underlying cause, your age, your reproductive goals, and the severity of your symptoms. Hormonal management options include birth control pills, progesterone, and hormonal IUDs, which can regulate bleeding patterns effectively. Non-hormonal medication options such as tranexamic acid or NSAIDs can reduce bleeding volume. Endometrial ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces or stops menstrual bleeding. Surgical management may be recommended for cases involving fibroids, polyps, or other structural abnormalities.
If you’re experiencing abnormal uterine bleeding, don’t wait — call Rashti Women's Care at (805) 682-7109 or request an appointment today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
What is considered abnormal uterine bleeding?
Abnormal uterine bleeding includes bleeding that occurs outside of your normal cycle, periods that are unusually heavy or prolonged, bleeding after sex, absence of periods for several months, and any vaginal bleeding after menopause.
When should I see a doctor about abnormal bleeding?
You should contact your OB-GYN any time your bleeding pattern changes significantly, you experience heavy bleeding, you bleed between periods, or you notice any postmenopausal bleeding. Call Rashti Women's Care at (805) 682-7109 to schedule an evaluation.
Can abnormal uterine bleeding be a sign of cancer?
While most cases of AUB are not caused by cancer, abnormal bleeding — particularly postmenopausal bleeding — can occasionally be a sign of endometrial cancer or hyperplasia. This is why timely evaluation is important. Dr. Rashti will conduct the appropriate testing to rule out serious causes.
Can stress or lifestyle changes cause abnormal uterine bleeding?
Yes. Significant physical or emotional stress, rapid weight changes, excessive exercise, and changes to sleep patterns can all affect hormone levels and disrupt the menstrual cycle. Even so, it’s still important to have an evaluation to rule out other causes.
Does abnormal uterine bleeding affect fertility?
Depending on the underlying cause, AUB may affect fertility. Conditions like PCOS, fibroids, or endometriosis that contribute to abnormal bleeding can also interfere with conception. If you have fertility concerns, our team offers infertility evaluation services.
What treatments are available for heavy menstrual bleeding?
Treatment options range from hormonal therapies and non-hormonal medications to minimally invasive procedures like endometrial ablation and surgical options for structural abnormalities. Dr. Rashti will recommend the most appropriate treatment based on your diagnosis and goals.
How do I get treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding at Rashti Women’s Care?
Call Rashti Women's Care at (805) 682-7109 or request an appointment online. We provide thorough diagnostic evaluations and a full range of treatment options to address the underlying cause of your abnormal bleeding.