What causes functional uterine bleeding?

Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 17, 2024
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Functional uterine bleeding is commonly seen in adolescence and menopause, primarily caused by the absence of normal ovulation. Without ovulation, there is no production of progesterone, leading to irregular vaginal bleeding or heavy bleeding under the influence of estrogen. The main treatment method is menstrual regulation. For adolescent girls, menstrual regulation and ovulation induction treatment are needed, as this is caused by abnormal development of the gonadal axis. Progesterone can be used for menstrual regulation. In menopausal women, menopausal functional uterine bleeding mostly results from abnormal ovulation, essentially due to a lack of progesterone, so treatment with progesterone can be applied. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Functional uterine bleeding untreated

Dysfunctional uterine bleeding is an endocrine disorder, often age-related. If dysfunctional uterine bleeding is not treated in a timely manner, some people may experience prolonged bleeding, leading to infections, abdominal pain, fever, and other issues. Additionally, some cases of dysfunctional uterine bleeding may result in excessive blood loss, leading to severe anemia, and even the need for emergency blood transfusions. A minority of cases of dysfunctional uterine bleeding involve abnormal proliferation of the endometrium, with some exhibiting precancerous changes. Consequently, the risk of endometrial cancer is relatively increased, necessitating early treatment.

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What causes functional uterine bleeding?

Dysfunctional uterine bleeding refers to the situation where a woman's uterus, ovaries, and brain do not have any actual organic lesions, such as the absence of uterine fibroids or ovarian cysts, yet there are functional changes that lead to bleeding. For example, the most common causes include excessive mental stress during schooling, emotional changes due to the death of a family member, or changes in living environment due to business trips, all of which can trigger uterine bleeding. In some cases, uterine bleeding may be a manifestation of a systemic disease; for instance, some women may experience it due to severe anemia or as a result of prolonged dieting and poor dietary habits leading to malnutrition and weight loss, especially if there is a sudden drop in weight. Additionally, some women may have metabolic diseases that can also cause uterine bleeding. Metabolic diseases include conditions such as elevated blood sugar, abnormal lipid levels, or anomalies in thyroid and adrenal gland functions.

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Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Is functional uterine bleeding easy to treat?

Functional uterine bleeding is a common gynecological disease. The cause of functional uterine bleeding is relatively clear, so it is easier to treat clinically. Currently, oral hormonal drugs are widely used to treat functional uterine bleeding. Most patients have their endocrine disorders readjusted after taking oral hormonal drugs, returning to normal levels. After several courses of hormonal drug treatment, most women can recover and resume regular menstrual cycles.

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Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How is functional uterine bleeding treated?

Functional uterine bleeding is a common endocrine disorder among women. When functional uterine bleeding occurs, it is recommended that the patient visit a local hospital to determine the type of functional uterine bleeding. Functional uterine bleeding can be divided into ovulatory and anovulatory types, and the treatment plans for different types vary. Therefore, identifying the type is key to how it is treated. Currently, oral hormonal medications are commonly used to treat functional uterine bleeding clinically.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What to eat for functional uterine bleeding

Dysfunctional uterine bleeding cannot be treated with the same medication for everyone; it is crucial to consider the specific findings of medical examinations. If dysfunctional uterine bleeding has caused anemia, it is essential to start taking hematinics early. A few may need blood transfusion treatment and should also pay attention to a diet rich in iron and high in nutrients. Some cases of dysfunctional uterine bleeding can be treated with hormonal medications because it is originally caused by hormonal disorders in the body. The most commonly used treatment is short-acting contraceptives, but some cases of dysfunctional uterine bleeding require diagnostic curettage surgery.