Diseases

uterine bleeding

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Overview

Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is bleeding from the uterus that is longer than usual or that occurs at an irregular time. Bleeding may be heavier or lighter than usual and occur often or randomly. AUB can occur: As spotting or bleeding between your periods.

Symptoms

  • heavy menstrual bleeding (formerly called menorrhagia).
  • bleeding at unusual times (between periods, after intercourse).
  • unusually long periods (seven days or longer).
  • inconsistent menstrual cycles.

Causes

  • hormone imbalances
  • infections
  • structural abnormalities in your uterus

Risk factors

  • medications blood thinners and aspirin, or hormone replacement therapy.
  • retained foreign bodies and trauma

Diagnosis

  • a pelvic exam.
  • a cervical exam.
  • a pap smear (pap test).

Medicines used

Frequently asked questions

What is uterine bleeding?

Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is bleeding from the uterus that is longer than usual or that occurs at an irregular time. Bleeding may be heavier or lighter than usual and occur often or randomly. AUB can occur: As spotting or bleeding between your periods.

What are the symptoms of uterine bleeding?

heavy menstrual bleeding (formerly called menorrhagia)., bleeding at unusual times (between periods, after intercourse)., unusually long periods (seven days or longer)., inconsistent menstrual cycles.

What causes uterine bleeding?

hormone imbalances; infections; structural abnormalities in your uterus

Which medicines are used for uterine bleeding?

medroxyprogesterone

Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app

Open the complete reference, check multi-drug interactions and use dosing tools in the MediHelp app.

Browse A–Z · Diseases