Dysfunctional uterine bleeding (DUB)

Alternative Names

Treatment

Young women within a few years of their first period are not treated unless symptoms are very severe, such as heavy blood loss causing anemia.

In other women, the goal of treatment is to control the menstrual cycle. Oral birth control pills or progestogen therapy are often used for this purpose. Women with anemia may get iron supplements.

If you want to get pregnant, you may be given medication to stimulate ovulation.

Women whose symptoms are severe and resistant to medical therapy may need surgical treatments including:

• Burning or removing the lining of the uterus (endometrial ablation)
• Hysterectomy

Older women who may be getting close to menopause may receive hormones or surgery to relieve symptoms.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Hormone therapy usually relieves symptoms.

Possible Complications

• Infertility from lack of ovulation
• Severe anemia from prolonged or heavy menstrual bleeding
• Buildup of the uterine lining without enough menstrual bleeding (a possible factor in the development of endometrial cancer)

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if you have unusual vaginal bleeding.

References

Rakel P, ed. Conn’s Current Therapy 2005. 57th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2005:1286-1288.

Stenchever A. Comprehensive Gynecology. 4th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2001:1082-1084.

Katz VL, Lentz GM, Lobo RA, Gershenson DM. Katz: Comprehensive Gynecology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby;2007.