Diagnosis

Before any testing is performed, a detailed history of your medical background and medications should be reviewed along with a physical examination.

In addition to the history and physical examination, the following may be used to better diagnose the source of the bleeding.

Blood Test
These may help look into a hormonal imbalance, the level of anemia and other blood abnormalities that may be associated with heavy bleeding

Ultrasound
This is a way to look at your uterus, ovaries and pelvis. An ultrasound is an imaging modality that uses soundwaves that formulates a picture that helps to interpret abnormal findings.

Sonohysterogram
A type of ultrasound that is used to interpret the inside of the uterus.

Dilation & Currettage (D&C)
A procedure in which the cervix is gently dilated to allow for a scrapping of the endometrium (inside lining of the uterus), this procedure allows actual tissue sampling and sometimes actually removal of the causative agent. The tissue sample is often sent to the laboratory for further analysis by a pathologist.

Endometrial Biopsy
This procedure is often performed in the office. This allows for a small piece of tissue from the endometrial cavity to be sent for further analysis by a pathologist.

Hysteroscopy
The introduction of a small camera into the uterus cavity, this allows your physician to actually see and note the interior of the uterus cavity. This procedure is often done at the same time as a D&C.