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Why women consult with increased vaginal bleeding: a case-control study.
Mark Shapley1, Kelvin Jordan, Peter R Croft
1Primary Care Sciences Research Centre, Keele University, Staffordshire.
Summary
Women experiencing heavy or irregular bleeding may not seek medical help, even when psychological distress is present. Period heaviness significantly influences consultation for increased vaginal bleeding.
Area of Science:
- Gynecology
- Primary Care Medicine
- Mental Health Research
Background:
- Many women with heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding do not seek medical consultation.
- Psychological distress is suggested to influence consultation behavior for menstrual disturbances.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the relationship between symptom severity, psychological distress, and seeking medical help.
- Investigate factors influencing primary care consultation for increased vaginal bleeding in women aged 54 or younger.
Main Methods:
- Case-control study in an urban general practice.
- Questionnaires administered to women with increased vaginal bleeding (cases) and control groups (consulting and community).
Main Results:
- Women with increased vaginal bleeding were more likely to report psychological distress.
- Heavy periods interfering with life were a strong predictor of consultation.
- Psychological distress remained a predictor even after accounting for period heaviness.
Conclusions:
- Period heaviness significantly impacts consultation for increased vaginal bleeding.
- Psychological disturbance is more prevalent in women presenting with increased vaginal bleeding compared to controls.