Abnormal uterine bleeding
Read the topic background here, then explore the labeled visual and structured learning explanations on this page.
Read explanation on this page ↓ See diagram ↓Abnormal uterine bleeding — on-site reading
An introductory overview for this topic. The article introduction is reproduced here, so you do not need to leave MedAtlas to read it. It may not match the latest official medical guidance.
Abnormal uterine bleeding is vaginal bleeding from the uterus that is abnormally frequent, lasts excessively long, is heavier than normal, or is irregular. The term "dysfunctional uterine bleeding" was used when no underlying cause was present. Quality of life may be negatively affected.
The underlying causes may be structural or non-structural and are classified in accordance with the FIGO system 1 & 2. Common causes include: Ovulation problems, fibroids, the lining of the uterus growing into the uterine wall, uterine polyps, underlying bleeding problems, side effects from birth control, or cancer. Susceptibility to each cause is often dependent on an individual's stage in life (prepubescent, premenopausal, postmenopausal). More than one category of causes may apply in an individual case. The first step in work-up is to rule out a tumor or pregnancy. Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy may be abnormal in certain circumstances. Please see Obstetrical bleeding and early pregnancy bleeding for more information. Medical imaging or hysteroscopy may help with the diagnosis.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Options may include hormonal birth control, gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists, tranexamic acid, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and surgery such as endometrial ablation or hysterectomy. Over the course of a year, roughly 20% of reproductive-aged women self-report at least one symptom of abnormal uterine bleeding.
How this connects to Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Blood and marrow disorders involve cell production and survival, immune function or the regulation of clotting and bleeding. A blood count or isolated biomarker is not a diagnosis: peripheral smear findings, cell lineage, clinical history and relevant marrow or molecular tests may be necessary.
Text credit: Wikipedia contributors, “Abnormal uterine bleeding”, original article · authors & revision history · CC BY-SA 4.0. Unmodified opening extract, accessed 24 September 2026. This Wikipedia-derived section is provided under CC BY-SA 4.0; the independent MedAtlas notes and design are separate works.
Abnormal uterine bleeding · visual study map
Scalable vector illustration. Labeled conceptual map, not a precise anatomical, histological or diagnostic image.The wording in this learning map is adapted from the attributed Wikipedia background section below (CC BY-SA 4.0).
What the underlying subject studies
Obstetrics and gynaecology integrate reproductive anatomy, hormonal physiology, pregnancy adaptation and conditions affecting the reproductive system. Gestational age and the distinction between maternal, placental and fetal compartments are fundamental in pregnancy topics.
How mechanisms and evidence connect
The hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian axis and endometrial changes explain menstrual and many reproductive processes. Pregnancy requires interpreting tests and symptoms in a time-dependent physiological context.
How to develop a sound explanation
Organize each topic as normal structure or cycle, mechanism of change, common presentations and principles of safe assessment. Care decisions require current obstetric guidance, patient preferences and specialist oversight.
References and verification (optional)
All reading material on this page appears above. The links below are for checking the primary syllabus, research or source attribution, not requirements for opening this lesson.
NMC official CBME Curriculum 2024 and current regulations index ↗