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Dysfunctional uterine bleeding (DUB) - Overview

Alternative Names

Anovulatory bleeding; Bleeding - dysfunctional uterine; DUB; Abnormal uterine bleeding

Definition of Dysfunctional uterine bleeding (DUB):

Dysfunctional uterine bleeding (DUB) is abnormal bleeding from the vagina that is not due to a physical (anatomical) cause.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

DUB may be caused by an imbalance of hormones -- estrogen or progesterone.

Risk factors include:

Emotional stress
Excessive exercise
Obesity

DUB occurs in women during their reproductive years (they have started their period but have not reached menopause). About 20% of DUB cases occur in adolescents and 40% occur in women over 40.

Normal uterine anatomy (cut section)

Reviewed last on: 2/5/2008
Peter Chen, MD, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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.

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