Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

Dysfunctional uterine bleeding (DUB) is abnormal vaginal bleeding not due to a physical cause. It is diagnosed by exclusion of causes such as pregnancy and pregnancy related disorders, medications, iatrogenic causes, systemic conditions and obvious genital tract pathology. DUB may be caused by an imbalance of hormones. Risk factors include emotional stress, excessive exercise and obesity. Symptoms include vaginal bleeding between periods; abnormal menstrual periods; infertility; mood swings; hot flashes; vaginal tenderness; and hirsutism. The goal of treatment is to control the menstrual cycle; reduce additional disorders such as anemia; and control hormone balances. Women whose symptoms are severe and resistant to medical therapy may need surgical treatments including burning or removing the lining of the uterus or hysterectomies.