Dysfunctional uterine bleeding is irregular vaginal bleeding. DUB may be caused by an imbalance of one of the hormones related to ovulation (estrogen or progesterone). In some women, fibroids (benign tumors) or polyps (fleshy growths) of the uterus can also cause menorrhagia. In rare cases, DUB can be caused by endometrial cancer (cancer of the lining of uterus) or cancer of the uterus. Other causes of DUB include structural disorders, such as functional ovarian cysts, cervicitis, endometritis, salpingitis, and leiomyomas. Trauma to the cervix, vulva, or vagina may cause abnormal bleeding. Pregnancy may be associated with vaginal bleeding. DUB occur in adolescents and 40% in women over 40. Obesity, excessive exercise, and emotional stress may be risk factors for DUB.
Symptoms of dysfunctional uterine bleeding is vaginal bleeding between periods , mood swings , infertility, hot flashes, vaginal tenderness and hirsutism. Period lasts longer than 7 days (normally 4 to 6 days). Women whose symptoms are severe and resistant to medical therapy may need surgical treatments including endometrial ablation (a procedure that burns or removes the lining of the uterus) or hysterectomy. Hysterectomy is surgery that removes the uterus. Hormone therapy usually relieves symptoms. Hemorrhagic uterine bleeding requires high-dose estrogen therapy. If bleeding is not controlled within 12-24 hours, a D&C is indicated. Estrogen is a hormone that is often used to stop dangerously heavy bleeding. Use of the levonorgestrel IUD, which releases a progesterone-like hormone into the uterus.
Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding Treatment and Prevention Tips
1. Sometime iron supplements may be recommended.
2. Estrogen also induces formation of progesterone receptors.
3. Endometrial ablation or hysterectomy is also recommended.
4. Resectoscopy involves using hysteroscope with a wire loop attached.
5. Oral contraceptives or progestogen therapy are frequently used for this purpose.
6. Estrogen therapy is a hormone that is often used to stop dangerously heavy bleeding.
Juliet Cohen writes articles for Women Health. She also writes articles for Early Pregnancy and Pregnancy Calendar.
