How to prepare for a video visit about Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB) - Triage

Audience: pediatric

Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB) means bleeding from the uterus that is different from normal menstrual periods. It can be heavy, irregular, or last longer than usual. For children and teens, AUB may be caused by many things, including hormonal changes or medical conditions. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help understand your symptoms and decide the next steps. Before your visit, gather information about your bleeding patterns, any pain, medications, and general health. During the visit, the provider will ask questions and may suggest tests or in-person exams if needed. Telemedicine can help start care quickly but cannot replace some physical exams or urgent treatments. If you notice severe bleeding, signs of anemia, or sudden pain, seek emergency care immediately. This guide helps you prepare for your video visit and know when to get urgent help.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Bleeding that soaks through one or more pads or tampons every hour for several hours
• Feeling faint, very weak, or dizzy during bleeding
• Severe abdominal pain or cramping that does not improve

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom discussion and history taking
• Providing education about abnormal uterine bleeding
• Guidance on when to seek in-person care or emergency services
• Planning next steps such as lab tests or imaging referrals

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical pelvic examination
• Emergency treatment for heavy bleeding
• Immediate blood transfusion or urgent surgical interventions
• Diagnosing complex underlying conditions without in-person evaluation

What is Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB)?

AUB is bleeding from the uterus that is different from a regular period. It may be heavier, last longer, or happen at unexpected times. In children and teens, AUB can happen for many reasons, such as hormonal changes during puberty or other health issues. Understanding your bleeding helps your healthcare provider decide what to do next.

How Telemedicine Can Help

A video visit lets you talk with a healthcare provider from home. They can ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any medicines you take. This helps them decide if you need tests or an in-person visit. Telemedicine is good for answering questions and planning care but cannot do physical exams or urgent treatments.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your visit, write down details about your bleeding, such as:

Having this information ready helps the visit go smoothly.

When to Seek Emergency Care

Some signs mean you need urgent help. Call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room if you have:

These are serious and need immediate care.

What to Expect After the Video Visit

Your provider may suggest tests like blood work or an ultrasound. Sometimes, they will ask you to come in for a physical exam. Follow their advice carefully and keep track of your symptoms. If things get worse or new symptoms appear, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency care.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the start date and duration of your bleeding
• Count how many pads or tampons you use daily
• Record any pain or other symptoms you experience
• List all medications, vitamins, or supplements you take
• Prepare a quiet, private space with good internet connection for the video call
• Have a trusted adult available if you need help during the visit

After your tele-visit

• Follow any instructions given by your healthcare provider
• Schedule recommended lab tests or imaging if advised
• Monitor your symptoms and bleeding closely
• Contact your provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear
• Seek emergency care immediately if red-flag symptoms develop

FAQs

What causes abnormal uterine bleeding in children and teens?

AUB in young people is often caused by hormonal changes during puberty. Other causes can include infections, bleeding disorders, or problems with the uterus. A healthcare provider can help find the cause.

Can a video visit diagnose the cause of my bleeding?

A video visit helps your provider understand your symptoms and decide what tests or exams you may need. However, some causes require physical exams or tests that cannot be done through telemedicine.

What should I do if my bleeding suddenly becomes very heavy?

If you start bleeding very heavily, soaking through pads quickly, or feel weak or dizzy, seek emergency medical care immediately. This can be a sign of serious bleeding that needs urgent treatment.

Will I need to see a doctor in person after the video visit?

Sometimes yes. Your provider may recommend in-person exams or tests to better understand your condition and provide proper treatment.

Sources

1. Abnormal Uterine Bleeding — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Menstrual Disorders in Adolescents — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Abnormal Uterine Bleeding in Adolescents — Mayo Clinic.
4. Evaluation of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If you have urgent symptoms or concerns, please seek immediate medical attention.