Menstruation is one part of a woman's cycle when the lining of the uterus (endometrium) is shed. This occurs throughout a woman's reproductive life. For menstruating women, an average menstrual cycle lasts 28 days (21 to 35 days), lasting for three to five days. It starts with the first day of the last period and ends with the first day of the next menstrual period. However, the length of women's cycles varies, between 21 days to 45 days. Anything outside this range may require medical attention. Over 30% of women experience irregular periods during their reproductive years.
Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is bleeding from the uterus that is longer than usual or that occurs at an irregular time. Bleeding may be heavier or lighter than usual and occur often or randomly. AUB can occur: As spotting or bleeding between your periods. It’s most common during menarche (when menstruation begins) and perimenopause (the years leading up to menopause).
The signs of abnormal uterine bleeding can vary. Some signs that your bleeding may be abnormal include heavy menstrual bleeding, bleeding at unusual times (between periods, after intercourse), unusually long periods (seven days or longer) and inconsistent menstrual cycles.
Causes include hormone imbalances (Anovulation, Thyroid disease, Polycystic ovary syndrome), Polyps, Fibroids, adenomyosis, pre-cancerous conditions and infections. These conditions are managed medically or surgically as per the root cause.