Home Remedies and Herbs for Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding

Dysfunctional uterine bleeding, also simply referred to as abnormal uterine bleeding, is term that refers to irregular bleeding from the uterus.¹ This type of bleeding is not related to normal menstruation.² Typically, women experience vaginal bleeding, or menstruation, once a month--or every 21 to 35 days on average.² This occurs when the uterus sheds its lining in preparation of a new reproductive cycle.Menstruation can last anywhere from a few days to a week with light to heavy bleeding.² 

Dysfunctional uterine bleeding refers to bleeding outside of this normal range. It may include prolonged bleeding following a menstrual period or spotting between periods. It may also happen following menopause. Bleeding may occur randomly and can be lighter or heavier than normal. This condition does not refer to bleeding during pregnancy.¹

What Causes Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding?

Dysfunctional uterine bleeding has many different causes and is not considered dangerous on its own.³ However, depending on the cause, medical attention may be required. Dysfunctional uterine bleeding causes may include a variety of underlying medical conditions like uterine fibroids, endometrial polyps, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Other complications that can lead to abnormal bleeding include cancers of the female reproductive system, bleeding disorders, and cervical or uterine infections.¹ 

Birth control, such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) or hormonal birth control, can also cause abnormal uterine bleeding as can extreme weight loss or weight gain.^1,3 Almost all of these dysfunctional uterine bleeding causes can be attributed to abnormal hormone levels, although certain non-hormonal causes such as trauma can occur as well.^1,4 Young women, post-menopausal women, and overweight women are at higher risk of abnormal bleeding.¹ 

Typically, teenagers who have just started their periods, women who are nearing menopause, and women who have started on a new birth control can expect abnormal spotting to occur.⁵ However, it’s best to talk to your doctor if you are concerned or if additional symptoms arise.

Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding Symptoms

Dysfunctional uterine bleeding symptoms may include:¹

• Bleeding between periods
• Irregular periods
• Heavier, abnormal bleeding during period
• Prolonged bleeding following a normal period

Symptoms that may be associated with an underlying cause can include mood swings, hot flashes, excessive body hair, and tenderness of the vagina. Women may feel fatigued after excessive blood loss, which can be a sign of anemia.¹ 

Dysfunctional uterine bleeding is typically treated through hormone therapies depending on the cause.Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications or low-dose birth control pills may be used. In some cases, depending on the cause, surgery may be required.¹ Dysfunctional uterine bleeding herbal remedies may help curb associated symptoms.

References

1. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000903.htm
2. http://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/vaginal-bleeding/basics/definition/sym-20050756
3. http://www.umwomenshealth.org/conditions-treatments/abnormal-bleeding-uterine-fibroids
4. http://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/vaginal-bleeding/basics/causes/sym-20050756
5. http://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/vaginal-bleeding/basics/when-to-see-doctor/sym-20050756