Best Gynaecologists for Hysterectomy in Mumbai, India

Abnormal uterine bleeding is uterine bleeding that falls outside the normal parameters for cycle frequency (fewer than 24 or more than 38 days apart), duration (more than 8 days), or volume, or that occurs at unexpected times such as between periods or after menopause. It is a clinical finding with many possible underlying causes, not a diagnosis in itself.

Common presentations include periods that are unusually heavy (soaking through protection rapidly or passing large clots), prolonged bleeding lasting more than a week, bleeding between menstrual cycles, or any uterine bleeding occurring after menopause. Associated symptoms such as pelvic pain, fatigue from anaemia, or bloating may also be present, and their pattern can offer useful clinical clues. It is important to note that symptom description alone is not sufficient to identify the underlying cause—formal clinical evaluation is required.

Diagnosis typically begins with a structured menstrual history and pelvic examination, followed by blood tests including a full blood count, hormonal profile (FSH, LH, TSH, prolactin), and coagulation studies where indicated. Pelvic ultrasound is usually the first-line imaging investigation and can identify structural causes such as fibroids or polyps; a transvaginal approach often provides greater detail. Where endometrial pathology is suspected—particularly in women over 45 or those with risk factors for endometrial cancer—an endometrial biopsy or hysteroscopy may be recommended to obtain tissue for histological assessment, and findings are classified using standardised systems such as the PALM-COEIN framework, which categorises causes as structural (Polyp, Adenomyosis, Leiomyoma, Malignancy) or non-structural (Coagulopathy, Ovulatory dysfunction, Endometrial, Iatrogenic, Not yet classified).

Treatment is always guided by the underlying cause, the woman's age, reproductive intentions, severity of symptoms, and overall health status, and should be determined in consultation with a qualified clinician after full evaluation. Options range from medical management—including hormonal therapies, tranexamic acid, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for symptom control—to minimally invasive procedures such as hysteroscopy, which allows direct visualisation and treatment of intrauterine lesions, through to surgical interventions including endometrial ablation or hysterectomy for cases where other approaches have failed or are inappropriate. No single treatment is universally suitable, and the most appropriate pathway depends entirely on individual clinical assessment.

Many women with abnormal uterine bleeding are successfully managed without surgery. Hormonal options such as the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (hormonal IUD), combined oral contraceptives, progestogens, or GnRH analogues can substantially reduce bleeding and are often the first line of treatment; non-hormonal medications such as tranexamic acid or NSAIDs may also be used to manage heavy periods. Where an underlying condition such as thyroid dysfunction or a bleeding disorder is identified, treating that condition directly may resolve the bleeding without any uterine-specific intervention.

Hysterectomy may be considered only when it is appropriate for the confirmed diagnosis and the expected benefit outweighs the individual risks. The decision may depend on symptom severity, investigation results, previous treatment, overall health and the patient's goals. A specialist should discuss alternatives and recovery before any procedure is planned.

Abnormal uterine bleeding is primarily evaluated and managed by a gynaecologist, and complex or high-risk cases—particularly where endometrial malignancy is suspected—may involve a gynaecological oncologist. Where a systemic cause such as a coagulation disorder or thyroid disease is identified, collaborative input from a haematologist or endocrinologist may also be part of the care team.

When selecting a specialist for abnormal uterine bleeding, it is worth considering the clinician's experience with hysteroscopic procedures and endometrial assessment alongside their access to multidisciplinary support, including oncology and radiology, should further investigation be needed. Continuity of care and clear follow-up arrangements are particularly important, as management may evolve over time depending on treatment response and changes in reproductive plans.

Share a concise medical summary, symptom timeline, previous diagnoses, investigation and imaging reports, procedure or biopsy reports where relevant, current medicines, allergies and related treatment records. Provide clear copies with translations when needed. The reviewing doctor may request additional information before giving an opinion.

Our care coordination team can review the initial information, help identify suitable doctors and hospitals, request a medical opinion where available, explain next steps and indicative cost information, and support practical planning before travel. A remote opinion does not replace an in-person examination or emergency care.