Differential Diagnosis for Heavy Vaginal Bleeding
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding (DUB): This is the most common cause of heavy vaginal bleeding in women of reproductive age, often related to hormonal imbalances affecting the normal menstrual cycle.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Uterine Fibroids: These are common benign tumors that can cause heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding due to their location and effect on the uterine lining.
- Endometrial Hyperplasia: A condition where the lining of the uterus grows too thick, which can lead to heavy or irregular bleeding.
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): An infection of the female reproductive organs that can cause heavy bleeding among other symptoms.
- Ectopic Pregnancy: Although less common, it's a significant cause of abnormal vaginal bleeding in early pregnancy.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Malignancies (Endometrial, Cervical, or Ovarian Cancer): Although rare, these conditions can present with abnormal vaginal bleeding and are critical to diagnose early for effective treatment.
- Pregnancy Complications (Miscarriage, Placenta Previa, Placental Abruption): These conditions can cause heavy vaginal bleeding and are emergencies that require immediate medical attention.
- Bleeding Disorders (e.g., Von Willebrand Disease): Underlying coagulopathies can exacerbate menstrual bleeding, making it heavier or more prolonged.
Rare Diagnoses
- Uterine Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs): Abnormal connections between arteries and veins in the uterus that can cause heavy, life-threatening bleeding.
- Uterine Sarcomas: Rare malignant tumors of the uterus that can present with abnormal vaginal bleeding.
- Systemic Diseases (e.g., Thyroid Disorders, Coagulopathies): Certain systemic conditions can affect menstrual regularity and heaviness, though they are less common causes of heavy vaginal bleeding.