Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding

To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Reference Making the Most of Your Appointment.

You can help your doctor diagnose and treat your condition by being prepared to answer the following questions:

• What was the date of your last menstrual period?
  • When was your previous period? Was it normal?
  • Do you have regular cycles, such as a period every 25 to 35 days?
  • If you have been through Reference menopause Opens New Window, how long ago was your last menstrual period?
• How Reference severe (heavy) is your usual menstrual flow? Keep track of your menstrual flow on a calendar, and take your calendar to show your doctor.
  • What is the average length of each period, and how many pads or tampons do you use per day during your period?
  • Do you pass many clots, and how big are they?
  • Do you change pads or tampons during the night?
• Are you sexually active?
• Do you engage in Reference high-risk sexual behaviors?
• Are you currently using any type of Reference birth control method?
• Have you missed any birth control pills or failed to have your Depo-Provera injection according to schedule?
• Have you done a Reference home pregnancy test Opens New Window? If so, when did you do the test, and what was the result?
• Have you been under increased physical or emotional stress?
• Have you recently changed your diet or exercise habits?
• Have you recently gained or lost weight?
• What prescription or nonprescription medicines are you taking, if any?
• Do you have any other symptoms, such as lower abdominal pain?
• Have you had other similar episodes and, if so:
  • What evaluation was done?
  • What was the diagnosis?
  • What was the treatment?
  • What were the results?
• Do you have any Reference health risks?

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.