More than one in five women experience abnormal uterine bleeding, a term that describes vaginal bleeding that is different from normal menstrual periods. Abnormal uterine bleeding is characterized by:

• Very heavy bleeding or unusually long periods (also called menorrhagia)

• Periods too close together

• Bleeding between periods

Other forms of abnormal uterine bleeding include what doctors call “amenorrhea” and “dysmenorrhea”:

• Amenorrhea is the lack of a menstrual period, usually used to describe the absence of a period in young women who haven't started menstruating by age 16, or the absence of a period in women who used to have a regular period. Causes of amenorrhea include pregnancy, breastfeeding, and extreme weight loss caused by serious illness, eating disorders, excessive exercising, or stress. Hormonal problems (involving the pituitary, thyroid, ovary, or adrenal glands) or problems with the reproductive organs may be involved.

• Dysmenorrhea is a condition with symptoms of painful periods and severe menstrual cramps. In younger women, there is often no known disease or condition associated with the pain of dysmenorrhea. Sometimes an underlying disease or condition, such as uterine fibroids or endometriosis, causes dysmenorrhea.³⁶

If you are experiencing abnormal uterine bleeding, discuss appropriate treatment options with your doctor.

Your doctors and nurses are excellent sources of information. The questions listed below can help you initiate a conversation that could result in important information for you and your family.

Questions About Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

1. What causes abnormal uterine bleeding?

2. Is this a serious problem?

3. Are there other tests I might need to help determine a cause?

Questions About Treatment Options for Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

1. How will I know if and when treatment is necessary?

2. Do I need medicine or surgery?

3. If I take hormones, will my condition improve?

4. If I need surgery, what are my options?

5. If I need a hysterectomy, is there a minimally invasive option?

If you’re not satisfied with the responses you receive, consider asking for a second opinion. You are an integral part of your healthcare team and you should feel comfortable with your physician and the recommended treatment.

Find out how to start talking with your doctor about your symptoms.

Get additional questions about abnormal uterine bleeding and treatment options to take to your visit with your doctor.

Get a list of surgeons in your area who perform MIP.