Metrorrhagia

Metrorrhagia is a condition characterized by vaginal bleeding that occurs between periods in women who are not pregnant. It is a symptom rather than a disease and can be caused by a variety of conditions, including hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids, polyps, cancer, and infections.

Causes

The most common cause of metrorrhagia is a hormonal imbalance. This can occur due to changes in estrogen and progesterone levels, which can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle. Other causes include uterine fibroids, which are noncancerous growths in the uterus, and polyps, which are small, benign growths on the lining of the uterus or cervix. In some cases, metrorrhagia can be a symptom of cancer, including uterine cancer, cervical cancer, and ovarian cancer. Infections, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, can also cause metrorrhagia.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of metrorrhagia is vaginal bleeding between periods. This bleeding can vary in severity, from light spotting to heavy bleeding. Other symptoms can include pain, cramping, and fatigue. In some cases, metrorrhagia can lead to anemia, a condition characterized by a lack of healthy red blood cells.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of metrorrhagia typically involves a physical examination, a review of the patient's medical history, and various tests. These tests can include a pelvic ultrasound, a hysteroscopy, and a biopsy of the uterine lining. In some cases, a Pap smear may also be performed to check for cervical cancer.

Treatment

Treatment for metrorrhagia depends on the underlying cause. Hormonal imbalances can often be treated with hormone therapy, while fibroids and polyps may require surgery. If cancer is the cause, treatment may involve chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery. Infections can typically be treated with antibiotics.

See also

• Menorrhagia
• Menstrual cycle
• Dysfunctional uterine bleeding

Metrorrhagia Resources
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