The menstrual cycle begins with the first day of bleeding of one period and ends with the first day of the next. In most women, this cycle lasts about 28 days. Cycles that are shorter or longer by up to 7 days are normal.

Abnormal uterine bleeding can occur at any age. However, at certain times in a woman’s life it is common for periods to be somewhat irregular. They may not occur on schedule in the first few years after a girl has her first period (around age 9–16 years). Cycle length may change as a woman nears menopause (around age 50 years). It also is normal to skip periods or for bleeding to get lighter or heavier at this time.

Abnormal uterine bleeding can have many causes. They include the following pregnancy, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy and adenomyosis. Use of some birth control methods, such as an intrauterine device (IUD) or birth control pills. Infection of the uterus or cervix and fibroids. Problems with blood clotting, polyps and endometrial hyperplasia. Certain types of cancer, such as cancer of the uterus, cervix, or vagina. Polycystic ovary syndrome.

Your health care provider will ask about your personal and family health history as well as your menstrual cycle. It may be helpful to keep track of your menstrual cycle before your visit. Note the dates, length, and type (light, medium, heavy, or spotting) of your bleeding on a calendar. You will have a physical exam. You also may have blood tests. These tests check your blood count and hormone levels and rule out some diseases of the blood. You also may have a test to see if you are pregnant.

Based on your symptoms, other tests may be needed these include

• Sonohysterography - Fluid is placed in the uterus through a thin tube, while ultrasound images are made of the uterus.
• Ultrasound - Sound waves are used to make a picture of the pelvic organs.
• Magnetic resonance imaging - In this imaging test, powerful magnets are used to create images of internal organs.
• Hysteroscopy - A thin device is inserted through the vagina and the opening of the cervix. It lets the health care provider view the inside of the uterus.
• Endometrial biopsy - Using a small or thin catheter (tube), tissue is taken from the lining of the uterus (endometrium). It is looked at under a microscope.

The type of treatment depends on many factors, including the cause of the bleeding, your age, and whether you want to have children. Most women can be treated with medications. Others may need surgery.

Hormonal medications often are used to control abnormal uterine bleeding. The type of hormone you take will depend on whether you want to get pregnant as well as your age. Birth control pills can help make your periods more regular. Hormones also can be given as an injection, as a vaginal cream, or through an IUD that releases hormones. An IUD is a birth control device that is inserted in the uterus. The hormones in the IUD are released slowly and may control abnormal bleeding. Other medications given for abnormal uterine bleeding include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen), tranexamic acid, and antibiotics. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can control bleeding and reduce menstrual cramps. Tranexamic acid is a drug used to treat heavy menstrual bleeding. Infections are treated with antibiotics.

Some women may need to have surgery to remove growths (such as polyps or fibroids) that cause bleeding. Some fibroids can be removed with hysteroscopy. Sometimes other techniques are used. Endometrial ablation may be used to control bleeding. It is intended to stop or reduce bleeding permanently. An endometrial biopsy is needed before ablation is considered. Hysterectomy may be done when other forms of treatment have failed or they are not an option. Hysterectomy is major surgery. Afterward, a woman no longer has periods. She also cannot get pregnant.