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

Last Revised: January 27, 2012

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine & Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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