Abnormal uterine bleeding
What is Abnormal uterine bleeding?
Vaginal or uterine bleeding that does not follow the patients "normal" cycle. This can be heavier than usual bleeding, longer than usual cycles, spotting between cycles, or more frequent cycles.Abnormal uterine bleeding is one of the most common reasons women see their doctors. It can occur at any age and has many causes. Some are easily treated, while others are more serious. Finding the cause is the first step in treatment. This pamphlet will explain: Causes of abnormal bleeding
How it is diagnosed
How it can be treated
Bleeding in any of the following situations is abnormal:
- Bleeding between periods
- Bleeding after sex
- Spotting anytime in the menstrual cycle
- Bleeding heavier or for more days than normal
- Bleeding after menopause
Abnormal bleeding can occur at any age. At certain times in a woman's life it is common for periods to be somewhat irregular. They may not occur on schedule in the first few years after a girl starts to have them (around age 9-16 years). The cycle may get shorter near age 35 years. It often gets shorter as a woman nears menopause (around age 50 years). It also is normal then to skip periods or for bleeding to get lighter or heavier.
