What are the symptoms of functional uterine bleeding?

Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 12, 2024
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Functional uterine bleeding, clinically divided into ovulatory and anovulatory functional uterine bleeding, presents differently depending on the type. Typically, the clinical manifestation of anovulatory functional uterine bleeding includes prolonged menstrual dripping or heavy vaginal bleeding. In such cases, it is recommended that patients seek immediate medical attention at a local hospital for a clear diagnosis and timely treatment. Ovulatory uterine bleeding is often characterized by changes in the menstrual cycle; some women may experience a shortened cycle, while others may have an extended menstrual cycle.

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Does functional uterine bleeding cause abdominal pain?

When women experience dysfunctional uterine bleeding, if this occurs during an anovulatory period, such as in adolescent or menopausal women, they generally do not experience abdominal pain. Some women have relatively regular menstrual cycles and only exhibit irregular bleeding between periods; these women still ovulate, and they may experience painful menstruation when their period comes. Furthermore, if dysfunctional uterine bleeding persists, it can lead to a decrease in a woman's immunity. Some women may develop concurrent gynecological inflammation, such as inflammation of the endometrium or adnexa. Even if menstruation does not occur, these women may experience abdominal pain, presenting as unilateral lower abdominal pain or heaviness, and the pain may intensify during menstruation.

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What foods should be avoided with functional uterine bleeding?

When women suffer from dysfunctional uterine bleeding, they should be particularly careful with their diet. For example, most women at this time have pelvic congestion, so it is best not to eat cold or uncooked foods, as these can aggravate pelvic congestion, leading to increased bleeding or prolonged bleeding duration. Additionally, it is advisable to avoid foods that promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis, or some proprietary Chinese medicines, such as the commonly seen saffron, which can also increase menstrual flow and vaginal bleeding. Most women with dysfunctional uterine bleeding, if prolonged, can affect their immunity, leading to infections. Therefore, it is best to avoid spicy foods during this period to prevent exacerbating infections.

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Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What causes functional uterine bleeding?

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 Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Is functional uterine bleeding related to a previous miscarriage?

Functional uterine bleeding in women, also known as dysfunctional uterine bleeding, occurs not due to organic lesions in the reproductive system but due to abnormalities in the function of the gonadal axis, leading to hormonal imbalances and dysfunctional uterine bleeding. This condition is generally unrelated to procedures like abortion or curettage. In some cases, it is triggered by issues such as delayed recovery of ovarian function following an abortion, excessive fatigue, or abnormalities in thyroid and adrenal gland functions, causing dysfunction of the gonadal axis. To address this issue, it is essential to first conduct tests, including a hormone panel and assessments of thyroid and adrenal gland functions, to identify the cause of the dysfunctional uterine bleeding and provide appropriate treatment.

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to treat functional uterine bleeding that has lasted for more than ten years?

If a woman has been suffering from dysfunctional uterine bleeding for more than ten years, a detailed examination should first be conducted to understand the causes of the bleeding. Blood tests can be done for hormonal profiles, thyroid, and adrenal functions, as well as blood glucose levels to identify any issues, such as potential ovarian dysfunction, which can be treated with short-acting oral contraceptives. Long-term irregular vaginal bleeding can lead to anemia, requiring a blood test to assess the severity of the anemia. If the anemia is not severe, oral iron supplements can be taken to correct it. Some women might experience infections due to prolonged bleeding, in which case broad-spectrum antibiotics can be prescribed to treat the infection. (Specific medications should be taken under the guidance of a physician.)