Húsablæðing

Húsablæðing, often translated as uterine bleeding or abnormal uterine bleeding, refers to any bleeding from the uterus that is not normal. This can include bleeding that is heavier than usual, lasts longer than usual, occurs at irregular intervals, or happens outside of the normal menstrual cycle. It is a common gynecological issue affecting women of all ages, from adolescents to postmenopausal individuals.

The causes of húsablæðing are diverse and can range from hormonal imbalances to structural abnormalities within the uterus. Common causes include ovulatory dysfunction, where the regular cycle of ovulation is disrupted, often leading to irregular or absent periods followed by heavy bleeding. Uterine fibroids, which are noncancerous growths in the uterus, and polyps, which are small, benign growths on the uterine lining, are frequent structural causes. Other contributing factors can include infections, certain medications like anticoagulants, pregnancy-related complications such as miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, and in rarer cases, gynecological cancers.

Diagnosis typically involves a medical history, a physical and pelvic examination, and may include further tests such as ultrasounds, blood tests to check hormone levels or rule out anemia, and biopsies of the uterine lining. Treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause, the severity of bleeding, and the individual's reproductive goals. Options can range from hormonal therapies to manage bleeding and regulate cycles, to surgical interventions for fibroids or polyps, or even more conservative approaches if the cause is transient. Persistent or unusually heavy húsablæðing should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine the cause and receive appropriate management.