Final answer:
Intermenstrual bleeding requires investigation into a variety of potential causes such as hormonal imbalances or structural issues like endometriosis, and diagnosis often involves pelvic exams and imaging tests. In cases of heavy menstrual bleeding, a strict vegan diet may put a woman at risk for iron-deficiency anemia.
Step-by-step explanation:
Intermenstrual bleeding refers to bleeding that occurs between menstrual periods. It can be symptomatic of various conditions, and this symptom requires a differential diagnosis (DDx) to identify the underlying cause. Possible diagnoses include hormonal imbalances, ovulation, endometriosis, polyps, fibroids, and malignancies among others. To diagnose the cause of intermenstrual bleeding, a physician may order a pelvic examination, Pap smear, blood tests to assess hormone levels, ultrasounds, and possibly a hysteroscopy or biopsy if a structural abnormality or malignancy is suspected.
A young woman experiencing unusually heavy menstrual bleeding particularly and following a strict vegan diet might be at risk for iron-deficiency anemia due to a potential lack of iron in her diet, which is a concern given that menstrual bleeding already contributes to iron loss.