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 80 mL (3 fl oz) each menstrual cycle [normally about 30 mL (1 fl oz)].

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).