[2] The underlying causes may include ovulation problems, fibroids, the lining of the uterus growing into the uterine wall, uterine polyps, underlying bleeding problems, side effects from birth control, or cancer.
Symptoms include vaginal bleeding that occurs irregularly, at abnormal frequency, lasts excessively long, or is more than normal.
[1][3] Excessive blood loss may also be defined as that which negatively affects a person's quality of life.
The healthcare provider will also check to see whether she or any family members have any potentially related health conditions, and whether she is taking medication that might increase or decrease menstrual bleeding, such as herbal supplements, hormonal contraceptives, over-the-counter drugs such as aspirin, or blood thinners.
[4] Laboratory assessment of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), pregnancy, and chlamydia is also recommended.
[2] Endometrial sampling is recommended in those over the age of 45 who do not improve with treatment and in those with intermenstrual bleeding that persists.
[3] Historically dysfunctional uterine bleeding meant there was no structural or systemic problems present.
[3] About one-third of all medical appointments with gynecologists involve AUB, with the proportion rising to 70% in the years around menopause.