Abnormal uterine bleeding || gynecology
Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is vaginal bleeding from the uterus that is abnormally frequent, last excessively long, is more than normal, or is irregular.[1][3] Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy is excluded.[3] Iron deficiency anemia may occur and quality of life may be negatively effected.[2]
The underlying causes may include ovulation problems, fibroids, the lining of the uterus growing into the uterine wall, uterine polyps, underlying bleeding problems, side effects from birth control, or cancer.[3] More than one category of causes may apply in an individual case.[3] The first step in work-up is to rule out a tumor or pregnancy.[5][3] Medical imaging or hysteroscopy may help with the diagnosis.[2]
Treatment depends on the underlying cause.[3][2] Options may include hormonal birth control, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, tranexamic acid, NSAIDs, and surgery such as endometrial ablation or hysterectomy.[1][5] AUB affects about 20% of reproductive