What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB) - Triage

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) in pediatric patients, families will usually receive guidance on monitoring symptoms and follow-up care. The healthcare provider often reviews the bleeding pattern, asks about other symptoms, and may suggest tracking periods and any pain or changes. Based on this information, the provider might recommend tests or an in-person visit if needed. Treatment options can vary depending on the cause and severity of bleeding. It's important to watch for warning signs like very heavy bleeding, severe pain, or signs of anemia. Telemedicine can help with education, initial evaluation, and deciding when to seek urgent care, but some cases require hands-on exams or lab tests. After the visit, families should keep track of symptoms and follow the provider’s instructions about medications or referrals. If new or worsening symptoms appear, prompt medical attention is necessary. This guide helps families understand what to expect after a telemedicine visit for AUB and how to stay safe.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Bleeding that soaks through one or more pads or tampons every hour for 2 or more hours
• Severe pelvic or abdominal pain that does not improve with usual pain relief
• Symptoms of anemia such as extreme tiredness, pale skin, dizziness, or fainting

What telemedicine can do

• Initial evaluation of bleeding symptoms
• Education about abnormal uterine bleeding
• Guidance on symptom monitoring and follow-up
• Determining urgency and need for in-person care

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical or pelvic examinations
• Laboratory tests and imaging
• Emergency treatment for heavy bleeding or anemia
• Procedures or surgeries

Understanding Your Telemedicine Visit

During the telemedicine visit, the healthcare provider will ask about your child's bleeding patterns, how often and how much bleeding occurs, and any other symptoms like pain or dizziness. They will also review medical history and any medications. This helps them decide if further tests or an in-person exam are needed. Telemedicine visits are a safe way to start understanding abnormal uterine bleeding without leaving home.

What Telemedicine Can and Cannot Do for AUB

Telemedicine can:

Telemedicine cannot:

If your child’s symptoms require physical examination or urgent care, the provider will guide you on next steps.

Red Flags to Watch For After Your Visit

Seek immediate medical care if your child experiences:

These symptoms need prompt evaluation beyond telemedicine.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before the visit, gather:

Having this information ready helps the provider give the best advice.

Aftercare Steps Following the Telemedicine Visit

After the visit, you may be advised to:

Keeping a symptom diary can be very helpful for follow-up.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have a recent record or calendar of bleeding dates, duration, and amount
• List all current medications and supplements
• Prepare questions or concerns about bleeding or symptoms
• Find a private, quiet space with reliable internet for the visit

After your tele-visit

• Track bleeding patterns and any new symptoms daily
• Follow any medication or treatment instructions given
• Schedule recommended lab tests or imaging
• Plan for an in-person visit if symptoms persist or worsen
• Seek emergency care if red flag symptoms develop

FAQs

What is abnormal uterine bleeding in children and teens?

Abnormal uterine bleeding means bleeding from the uterus that is different from normal menstrual periods. In children and teens, this can include very heavy bleeding, bleeding between periods, or bleeding that lasts a long time. It may be caused by hormonal changes, infections, or other health issues.

When should I take my child to the emergency room for bleeding?

If your child is bleeding very heavily—soaking through a pad or tampon every hour for two or more hours—or if they have severe pain, dizziness, fainting, or extreme tiredness, go to the emergency room right away. These signs can mean serious problems that need urgent care.

Can telemedicine visits replace all in-person care for abnormal uterine bleeding?

Telemedicine is helpful for initial evaluation and education, but it cannot replace physical exams, lab tests, or emergency treatments. Some cases of abnormal bleeding require in-person visits to diagnose and treat properly.

What should I do if my child’s bleeding gets worse after the telemedicine visit?

If bleeding becomes heavier, pain increases, or new symptoms like dizziness or fainting develop, contact your healthcare provider immediately or seek emergency care. Do not wait for the next scheduled appointment.

How can I help my child keep track of their bleeding?

Use a calendar or a smartphone app to note the start and end dates of bleeding, how heavy it is, and any pain or other symptoms. This information helps healthcare providers understand the problem better and decide on 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: Evaluation and Management — Mayo Clinic.
4. Heavy Menstrual Bleeding — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have concerns about your child's health or if symptoms worsen, seek care from a healthcare professional promptly.