Prolonged Bleeding Concerns
Age: 32 Gender: Female Height: 5 feet 2 inches Weight: 159 lbs Medications: Wellbutrin XL 150 mg, Zoloft 150 mg Duration of bleeding: One month Location: California I am currently breastfeeding my 17-month-old child. Initially, I began experiencing bleeding that was dark brown, resembling a typical menstrual cycle, albeit not excessively heavy. This initial bleeding persisted for about ten days, then paused for a brief period of one or two days, only to resume and continue for a month in a similar way. Subsequently, I noticed an increase in discharge that was quite watery; I used a pad during this time, and there was no unpleasant odor. This watery discharge lasted for two days before I transitioned to experiencing heavy bleeding that was bright red in color. At this stage, I found myself needing to change pads every hour and a half due to the intensity, which persisted for the last three days. This heavy bleeding is occurring intermittently, with episodes lasting as long as five hours. Additionally, I am uncertain whether my situation is related, but last year I received news of an abnormal PAP test. I was diagnosed with CIN 3 and underwent a LEAP procedure to extract the affected tissue. This was performed six months after giving birth, following which I experienced an infection that was resolved with antibiotics. This year, I once again had an abnormal PAP result, this time indicating CIN 2, but my physician informed me that no further treatment is necessary at this point. My doctor mentioned that such bleeding can be expected while breastfeeding and is likely associated with hormonal changes. An ultrasound is planned to investigate further. I'm curious if others have encountered similar experiences and how long the bleeding might last.
Answers (1)
8/27/2025, 5:34:36 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're navigating a particularly challenging situation with your prolonged bleeding. Based on your description, there are a few important points to consider.
Main Points:
- Prolonged bleeding while breastfeeding can be influenced by hormonal changes.
- Your previous history with cervical issues, including CIN 2, could also be relevant.
- Monitoring and further investigation through an ultrasound are crucial steps.
Explanation:
The bleeding you've experienced for over a month, particularly with changes in color and intensity, can be distressing. Hormonal changes associated with breastfeeding can lead to irregular menstrual cycles, and some women experience changes in bleeding patterns during this time. However, given your history of abnormal PAP tests and the recent shift to such heavy bleeding, it's wise to pay close attention to these symptoms. Heavy bleeding can sometimes indicate other conditions, such as fibroids, polyps, or issues related to cervical health.
Next Steps:
-
Track Your Symptoms: Maintain a record of your bleeding patterns, including color, volume, and frequency. Note any additional symptoms like cramps or fatigue, as this information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider.
-
Prepare for Your Ultrasound: Ensure you ask your doctor any questions you may have about the ultrasound. This test will help identify physical causes for the bleeding, so understanding the procedure and its importance is essential.
-
Stay Hydrated and Use Appropriate Products: While managing the heavy bleeding, stay hydrated and use absorbent pads to avoid discomfort. If you notice that you're changing pads every hour or less, this warrants immediate attention, particularly if it continues.
-
Follow-Up on Your Cervical Health: Continue to monitor your cervical health status. It may be beneficial to discuss with your healthcare provider any necessary follow-ups regarding your abnormal PAP tests and CIN history, especially if symptoms change or worsen.
-
Consider Seeking Support: If the emotional toll of this experience becomes overwhelming, consider talking with friends, family, support groups, or a mental health professional. Your emotional well-being is as important as your physical health.
Please keep an open line with your healthcare provider, especially as your ultrasound approaches, and don't hesitate to report any drastically worsening symptoms. You are taking the right steps, and it's good to stay informed and vigilant in your health journey.
Related Questions
Seeking Dermatological Advice on Persistent Bump
I have a tiny bump on my chest that appears to be flesh-colored or slightly pink. Occasionally, I can squeeze it, but it doesn’t cause me any pain. This bump has been present for quite some time and seems to be permanent. I’m concerned that it might be a basal cell carcinoma (BCC). I recently underwent a comprehensive skin examination, and my dermatologist did not mention this issue. I’ve provided further details in the comments!
Health Struggles with Mysterious Symptoms
Female, age 28 My health troubles began when I was just 15 years old, when I was diagnosed with Psoriatic Arthritis, presenting with psoriasis affecting my face, scalp, and the upper portion of my body. This condition was accompanied by significantly swollen lymph nodes, episodes of night sweats, and joint discomfort, which subsided with steroid treatment. Over the subsequent twelve years, I managed intermittent scalp issues along with occasional joint pain, particularly in my back and right wrist. I also endured strange sensations in my ankles, which only occurred while lying down but dissipated upon standing. However, over the past two years, I began experiencing urgent bouts of yellow diarrhea multiple times daily. In 2024, I caught the flu, and two weeks afterward, I developed a rash that spread across my face and chest—splotchy and red, yet neither itchy nor painful. Along with this, I suffered a fever, a severe migraine that lasted six days, neck pain, and swollen lymph nodes. I was hospitalized for six days, during which tests were conducted to rule out meningitis, which were negative. Despite attempts to relieve the migraine, nothing worked. Eventually, I consulted my general practitioner, and soon after, I was referred to a rheumatologist when I began experiencing numbness and a deep ache in my hands during the night. At the rheumatology clinic, I underwent tests for inflammatory markers and lupus. Fortunately, lupus tests returned negative, but my CRP and IGA levels were elevated. A course of methotrexate provided no relief, and I was taken off it. Shortly after, I experienced swelling in my mouth and developed several ulcers, a problem that has been persistent. Additionally, I started feeling pain in my shoulder, collarbone, and sternum. My rheumatologist then prescribed Humira; however, after seven doses, I still found no improvement. Frustrated by a diagnosis of fibromyalgia, I decided to seek a second opinion from a different rheumatologist. My new rheumatologist, during our first appointment, ran tests for lupus and my thyroid function, all of which came back negative except for a notably elevated CH50 level (>60). I have yet to hear back regarding these results, but I harbor a sense of skepticism about the outcome. She advised me to discontinue Humira due to the random episodes of hives and swelling in my uvula. Current health issues include consistently high CRP and IGA levels, along with an elevated CH50, yet tests for lupus, Lyme disease, Epstein-Barr virus, HLA-B27, and rheumatoid factor have all returned negative. A visit to a gastroenterologist led to a diagnosis of IBS, and I consulted a dermatologist regarding a biopsy for my malar-like rash; however, she declined to proceed with the biopsy on three separate occasions, citing negative lab results.
Persistent Swelling Near Submandibular Gland Two Years Post-Infection: What Are the Risks?
I am a generally healthy 25-year-old female, standing at 5'5" and weighing 165 pounds. I do not smoke or consume alcohol, maintain a plant-based diet, and engage in regular physical activity. Currently, I am not taking any medications. Approximately two years ago, I contracted the flu, and towards the end of my illness, I experienced a salivary gland infection in my submandibular gland, resulting in significant swelling that obscured the distinction between my chin and neck. This condition resolved after treatment with a high-dose steroid combined with a course of antibiotics. Since that episode, however, I have noticed persistent swelling in the same area, localized to a specific lump where the initial swelling occurred. It has a smooth texture, resembling the consistency of a big toe’s tip (an unusual comparison, I know, but it’s the closest description I can offer). I consulted an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist who conducted ultrasounds and a needle biopsy. They indicated that the biopsy might show heightened levels due to lymph node reactivity, but the results were deemed normal. Eventually, I ceased follow-ups with the specialist, even though the spot remains swollen. I suspect that the lymph node located behind my submandibular gland is enlarged, contributing to the sensation of enlargement in the gland itself. Recently, I have noticed a slight increase in swelling. Should I be worried about the potential for lymphoma or other types of cancer? At this juncture, I feel perplexed and cannot comprehend why the swelling persists two years after the initial infection.
Persistent Swelling near Submandibular Gland After Two Years: Any Reasons for Alarm?
I am a 25-year-old female who generally considers herself to be in good health. Standing at 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing 165 pounds, I don’t smoke or drink alcohol. My lifestyle includes regular exercise and adherence to a plant-based diet, and I am not taking any medications. About two years ago, I experienced the flu, which was shortly followed by a salivary gland infection in my submandibular gland. The inflammation was so severe that there was virtually no distinction between my chin and neck during that time. Fortunately, the swelling subsided after I received a course of high-dose steroids coupled with antibiotics. However, since that incident, I have continued to notice localized swelling in that region, specifically a lump directly at the site of the original inflammatory episode. The lump has a smooth surface and is about the same firmness as the tip of my big toe — an unusual metric, I know, but it's the best comparison I can devise. Initially, I consulted an ear, nose, and throat specialist, underwent various ultrasounds, and had a needle biopsy performed. The specialists informed me that the biopsy might exhibit elevated levels due to the lymph node being reactive; yet, the results ultimately returned as normal. Although I no longer need to see that specialist, the swelling persists in the same area. I suspect the lymph node behind my submandibular gland is the root of the swelling, which might be causing the sensation of enlargement in the gland itself. Lately, I've noticed a slight increase in the size. Should I be worried about the potential for lymphoma or any other forms of cancer? I'm feeling quite bewildered and anxious, as it’s frustrating to have persistent swelling in that area two years after my initial infection.
Struggling with Persistent Neurological Issues: Seeking Guidance on Next Steps
I am a 27-year-old male weighing 210 pounds, currently not on any medications. It all began nine months ago during a dental procedure for fillings. After receiving an injection of prilocaine, I started to experience a peculiar sensation throughout my body. It felt as if I was enveloped in warmth, descending into a surreal, dreamlike state. Initially, I chalked it up to a normal anesthetic reaction and tried to dismiss it. However, the odd feelings persisted. For these past nine months, I’ve been trapped in a bizarre mental state characterized by facial numbness, along with a growing list of neurological and psychological symptoms. These include issues with memory, incessant burping that sometimes leads to nausea, and disorienting experiences resembling vivid hallucinations. Although I am aware of what is real, these episodes are terrifying and severely disrupt my daily life. In my prior posts, I've elaborated on these experiences. At this point, I’m completely overwhelmed—I am unable to work and constantly endure episodes of intense fear. My thoughts are unclear, and I find myself losing hope. I have been prescribed various medications, including clonazepam, lamotrigine, oxcarbazepine, clonidine, gabapentin, and antibiotics—believing an infection might be the root cause. I’ve also undergone multiple courses of steroids. Soon, I may begin treatment with antipsychotic medications. Scans such as MRIs and CTs returned normal results. The initial diagnosis suggested temporal lobe epilepsy, which has since been dismissed, leaving me without a clear diagnosis. I can only describe my condition as feeling perpetually caught between wakefulness and slumber, akin to being in a half-dream state. Additionally, I sense a pronounced dissimilarity between the left and right sides of my body—my left side feels almost sedated, while my right side seems normal, although my physical strength remains consistent across both sides. I find myself at a loss as to how to proceed. The severity of my symptoms is unbearable, and I see no signs of progress towards an effective solution. No treatments have alleviated my discomfort; in fact, sedative or anxiety-relieving approaches often exacerbate my perceptual anomalies. Given the circumstances, I would greatly appreciate any advice or recommendations from those who have navigated similar challenges or from knowledgeable sources in this realm.