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Treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding can be found with your Northwestern gynecologist in downtown Chicago.

Every woman is unique in her own cycle, with fluctuations occurring from month to month. Due to the normal changes that may be experienced, it can be difficult for a woman to determine what is normal and what is abnormal in terms of uterine bleeding. Patients should schedule a visit with us if sudden or dramatic changes have occurred to the menstrual cycle. The extra checkup may confirm optimal health and will produce greater peace of mind than wondering if a gynecological problem has developed.

When bleeding is abnormal

There are certain signs that a woman can look for to determine if bleeding is out of the ordinary. For the most part, uterine bleeding should occur only during the natural course of active menstruation. This occurs during the first week of the menstrual cycle. Changes that may require further evaluation from your experienced gynecologist include:
  • Bleeding occurs after menopause.
  • Bleeding during active menstruation is heavier or lasts longer than the norm.
  • Sexual intercourse causes bleeding.
  • Spotting or bleeding occurs between periods.

Understanding menstruation

The menstrual cycle should last about 28 days. It may extend or shorten, however, to range between 21 and 35 days. The first day of a new cycle begins on the first day of menstruation. If your next period comes before 21 days or after 35 days, it is advisable to see your physician at Northwestern Women’s Health Associates S.C. to rule out a gynecological issue.

Potential signs of abnormal bleeding are cause for further evaluation but not necessarily cause for alarm. There are various factors at play in a woman’s reproductive health and, in some cases, what seems abnormal is actually quite within the norm in a given situation. For example, as a woman approaches menopause, her periods may vary widely from light to heavy. The perimenopausal woman may also skip periods.

What may cause abnormal uterine bleeding

When assessing abnormal bleeding, we look for potential causes such as:
  • Natural response to hormonal birth control
  • Thyroid dysfunction
  • Diabetes or other chronic health conditions
  • Abnormal pregnancy
  • Infections
  • Polyps or fibroids in the uterus or on the cervix
  • Imbalance in the hormones that regulate menstruation
  • Vaginal, uterine, or cervical cancer

Dr. Stanley Friedell speaks about abnormal uterine bleeding

Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is a common issue seen by gynecologists. It’s mainly caused by hormonal problems, vaginal infections, and uterine fibroids/polyps. A woman experiencing AUB should visit a gynecologist. A proper evaluation comprises an examination, often including an ultrasound scan and sometimes, a biopsy. AUB can be treated successfully.


There is no need to wonder if changes to your menstrual cycle are normal. Keep your peace of mind by calling Northwestern Women’s Health Associates S.C. for your consultation. .

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women’s healthcare, our team of experts is dedicated to providing every woman highest level of sensitive, specialized care

At Northwestern Women's Health Associates

your unique needs are our highest priority.

Making use of advanced technology and staying on the cutting edge of women’s healthcare, our team of experts is dedicated to providing every woman who visits our office with the highest level of sensitive, specialized care. At our office in Chicago, you can receive exceptional obstetrics and gynecology (OBGYN) services from any one of our highly skilled doctors, including Stanley Friedell, MD; Abbie Roth, MD; Regina Belmonte, MD; Sharon Wise, MD; Julianne Morton, MD; Whitney Dunn, MD; Aleena Lakhanpal, MD ; and Margaret Kistner, MD. With their combined expertise, this team of board-certified doctors at Northwestern Women's Health Associates makes it possible for you to receive efficient, personalized care from the preeminent women’s hospital in the Midwest.

Success Stories

  • 5 Star Review
    "Wonderful experience with Dr. Julianne Morton @ NW Women's Associates. I've recommended her to countless girlfriends. Being a first time mom, I went through many physical symptoms and emotions that accompany pregnancy. She is extremely thorough, patient, and has wonderful bedside manner. I felt confident going into delivery with Dr. Morton taking the lead with my delivery. Wonderful practice!"

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    "Dr. Morton is absolutely amazing. She cared for me throughout my first pregnancy and we found her to be kind and caring and straightforward - could not have asked for a better experience! Dr. Dunn ended up being on call during my delivery and she was great as well. I have always found the nurses and office staff to be friendly and on top of things - very happy with the practice!"

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    "I had to have a laproscopic hysterectomy done by Dr. Friedell and all went fabulously! They were very detailed in pre-op which made a lot of difference. I came out of surgery feeling great and post op I was back to work within two weeks. Everyone at the practice, at the hospital, at pre-op were incredible."

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  • 5 Star Review
    "Dr.Julianne Morton is amazing! I was recommended by a friend when I moved to the Chicago area and was looking for an OB-GYN. I have seen her for two years in Chicago for my yearly exam. She is beyond kind and great at what she does. Dr.Morton makes you feel very comfortable and is such an incredible doctor! I have recommended her to all of my friends as well who need a new gyno/OB-GYN."

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  • 5 Star Review
    "Dr. Morton is a really great doctor. She has an incredible bedside manner and makes you feel comfortable. She makes sure to ask if you have any questions and will happily answer all of them with you. Would highly recommend!"

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    "Dr. Friedell is amazing! He helped delivered my first baby and the whole process was super smooth and stress free. All the staff in the office are super friendly too. Highly recommend!"

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    "Dr Freidell is extremely knowledgeable, thorough and really cares about his patients. He is very good at getting to the root of the problem, especially with overlapping symptoms. He guided me through all my options and their implications. I will highly recommend him and his team."

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    "I love Dr. Belmonte. I have been going to her since 2006! She rocks!!! She is straight to the point, I love that about her. When I leave her office after seeing her I always feel great, like a just left a good friends house or something!"
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  • 5 Star Review

    "I can not tell you how wonderful my experiences have been. Dr. Sharon Wise is my doctor and she is fantastic. She is straightforward and honest about treatments and procedures. I enjoy her sense of humor, and I found her bedside manner when delivering my son to be excellent. "

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