Dysfunctional uterine bleeding

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Dysfunctional uterine bleeding

Dysfunctional uterine bleeding is irregular vaginal bleeding that is not caused by a serious medical problem, such as miscarriage or cancer. In most cases, dysfunctional uterine bleeding is related to changes in hormone levels.

Dysfunctional uterine bleeding is:

Menstrual bleeding that occurs more often than every 21 days (a normal menstrual cycle is 21 to 35 days long).
Menstrual bleeding that lasts longer than 7 days (normally 4 to 6 days).
Blood loss of more than each menstrual cycle [normally about ].

Treatment options include:

Waiting to see if symptoms get better on their own.
Hormone therapy.
Surgery, such as hysterectomy or endometrial ablation.

Women with dysfunctional uterine bleeding should be examined for other causes of symptoms and tested for anemia (low red blood cell count).

Credits

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Author	Kathe Gallagher, MSW
Author	Debby Golonka, MPH
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Associate Editor	Terrina Vail
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Liisa Honey, MD, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last Updated	February 12, 2008

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Last updated:	February 12, 2008
Author:	Debby Golonka, MPH
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Liisa Honey, MD, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Terrina Vail

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