Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding - What Happens

SYMPTOMS & TREATMENTS

Dysfunctional uterine bleeding (DUB) occurs most often before age 20 and after age 40.1

  • Teen years. Some teens have times of irregular vaginal bleeding. This usually gets better over time as hormone levels even out and the menstrual cycleClick here to see an illustration. becomes more regular. If you need treatment, your doctor may give you hormones to help regulate your menstrual cycle. He or she may also prescribe medicine to reduce bleeding.
  • Reproductive years. Some women in their 20s and 30s have dysfunctional uterine bleeding. Sometimes it's because of changing hormone levels. And sometimes the reason is not known. If your doctor rules out serious causes of vaginal bleeding, he or she may diagnose you with dysfunctional uterine bleeding without knowing why it is happening. Your treatment depends on whether you are planning to have children.
  • After age 40: Perimenopausal and menopausal years. After age 40, women tend to have changing hormone levels. During this time before your period stops (perimenopause), you may not always ovulate. This can lead to irregular vaginal bleeding. You can expect this bleeding to go away on its own when menopause is complete. Your treatment options depend on your childbearing plans and how much your symptoms are impacting your daily life. Your doctor may recommend a wait-and-see approach, hormones, or a surgical procedure.

No matter what your age, see your doctor if you have irregular vaginal bleeding.

By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: February 9, 2010
Medical Review: Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Femi Olatunbosun, MB, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology

1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

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