Dysfunctional uterine bleeding (abnormal vaginal bleeding)

Description Irregular bleeding ...

Description

Irregular bleeding from the uterus that is not the result of an identifiable medical illness or structural abnormality of the uterus, such as a fibroid tumor. A hormone imbalance is the most common cause. A failure to ovulate is commonly associated with dysfunctional uterine bleeding.

Symptoms

Abnormal vaginal bleeding, bleeding between normal menstrual cycles, mood swings, abnormal growth of hair.

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests include: blood clotting profile, hormone levels (LH, FSH, androgen, progesterone), serum pregnancy tests-HCG (Human chorionic gonadotropin), thyroid studies (TSH ;Thyroid Stimulating Hormone), and/or pelvic ultrasound.

Tests:
Pregnancy (BHCG) test, Complete blood count (CBC), Ultrasound

Other Specific Tests: Protime, activated partial thromboplastin, LH, LH (luteinizing hormone) (follicle-stimulating hormone), androgen, progesterone, TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone), D and C, endometrial biopsy, hysteroscopy

Specialists:
Obstetrics and Gynecology

Treatment

Common treatments include hormonal treatments (such birth control pills, estrogen or progesterone) and nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Motrin). Desmopressin may be recommended if a bleeding tendency is discovered and other treatments aren't effective. Severe cases require endometrial ablation (burning of the uterine lining) or hysterectomy. Iron is often given for co-existing anemia.