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.
- 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.
