Abnormal menstruation

This condition is treated in the Gynaecology clinic.

Pre-referral work-up

History

Minimum of three months unless continuous bleeding.

All referrals should comply with referral standards and include in particular:

• Duration of condition - primary or secondary condition
• Age of menarche
• Gynaecological and obstetric history
• Treatment - present and past and efficacy of treatments
• Symptoms - pain, fatigue and effects on work, study etc
• Family history - haematolgical disorders
• Examination findings - genital tract abnormalities

Tests

• Pap smear
• Pelvic ultrasound
• FBE and iron studies if prolonged or heavy bleeding
• Pregnancy test - if acute

Interim/GP management

To refer a patient with this condition, please see the Gynaecology clinic page for the full referral process and templates.

Consider use of hormonal treatments such as OCP, a hormonal intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD) or a hormonal implant if no contra-indications. Consider use of NSAIDs such as Mefenamic acid.

In the THS Southern Region women suitable for outpatient hysteroscopy may be referred directly by their GP without the need for a Gynaecology Clinic appointment  - see referral pathway.

For more information please see the HealthPathways Tasmania website.

Clinic appointments

🚩 Red location flags are clinical indicators of possible serious underlying conditions requiring further medical intervention. They may or may not indicate an emergency.

Emergency

🚩 Uncontrolled heavy bleeding

If you, or someone else, are experiencing a serious and life-threatening injury or illness call triple zero (000) immediately or go to the nearest Emergency Department.

Learn more about when to access emergency care and non-emergency care options if the injury or illness is not serious or life-threatening.

Urgent (Category 1)

🚩 Anaemia with Hb under 80 g/l

🚩 Age over 37

🚩 Pelvic mass

🚩 Abnormal smear

Urgent referrals should be accompanied by a phone call to the Consultant/Registrar to organise urgent review.

We will endeavour to see these patients within four weeks, or sooner if clinically indicated.

Routine (Category 3)

• Resistant to treatment

Will be seen in turn.

Availability

North

Launceston General Hospital (Level 5)
Phone:  1300 977 694
Fax: 03 6777 5214

North West

North West Regional Hospital
Phone: 6493 6300
Fax: 6464 1928

Mersey Community Hospital
Phone: 1800 636 455 
Fax: 6441 5928

South

Wellington Clinics (Level 8)
Phone: 03 6166 0000
Fax: 03 6173 0473