Vaginal bleeding can be an indication of some major underlying complications related to uterine tumors, abnormalities, or diseases.
Causes of vaginal bleeding
There are several causes of vaginal bleeding in premenopausal and postmenopausal nonpregnant patients.
In the case of premenopausal women, causes like lesions, uterus infection, dysfunctional uterine bleeding, or the presence of a foreign body can cause vaginal bleeding.
If vaginal bleeding occurs in postmenopausal patients, some possible causes can include certain medications, uterine cancer, endometrial hyperplasia, and vaginal atrophy.
Managing vaginal bleeding in the ER
Blood flow stability is the main concern for patients who come into the emergency room with vaginal bleeding. If a person with excessive bleeding comes to the ER, the first priority is to replace blood volume and stabilize blood pressure.
A pelvic examination may be done to understand the underlying reason behind the vaginal bleeding. Causes including trauma, pelvic injury, or tumors will be investigated. Patients with no prominent injury or tumor and with continual bleeding may be given intravenous Premarin, which is a conjugated estrogen that slows uterine blood flow.
If the bleeding does not stop despite treatment, surgery may be necessary.
Testing
Usually, a blood test is done to monitor for abnormalities like high or low thyroid levels and anemia.
Ultrasound is performed to check for pelvic abnormalities, or to see if a patient has endometrial cancer or if vaginal bleeding continues despite getting the proper treatment. In ultrasound, a device is inserted intravaginally or can be placed on the abdomen for a pelvic examination.
If all the possibilities are ruled out, then the vaginal bleeding in a non-pregnant patient may be a result of hormonal changes in the menstrual cycle.
Treatment for vaginal bleeding – not emergent
Treatment for vaginal bleeding outside of an emergency situation depends on the diagnosis. In case of abnormal uterine bleeding related to heavy menstrual bleeding, the most common treatment is hormonal including oral contraceptive pills (OCPs), progestin, and estrogen. NSAIDs can also be used for heavy menstrual bleeding.
Facial abrasions and considered more serious as these have a higher risk of cicatrization and should be cleaned,debrided, and dressed daily. Dressings may require skin adhesives like the combination of gum mastic, styrax,alcohol, and methyl salicylate or tincture of benzoin.
Contact us
In case of urgent medical care assistance, AfterOurs Urgent Care offers immediate telemedicine services, where medical providers are available to offer assistance. Anyone who experiences signs and symptoms requiring urgent medical attention can simply book their appointment with AfterOurs Urgent Care to directly talk to an expert. If your medical issue is not appropriate for telemedicine, we will let you know and refer you to an in-person facility.
When to visit a doctor:
If you experience abnormal vaginal bleeding, you should see a medical provider in order to avoid possible serious complications.
Treatment related to vaginal bleeding in non-pregnant patients is available at AfterOurs Urgent Care.