ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Abnormal uterine bleeding

Abnormal uterine bleeding means that a person is bleeding from their vagina in a way that is not normal or expected. Usually, people with periods bleed for about 3-5 days, and then the bleeding stops. However, sometimes people may bleed for longer or shorter periods, have heavier or lighter bleeding than usual, or their bleeding may be irregular or unpredictable.

There are many reasons why someone may experience abnormal uterine bleeding. For example, they may have a hormonal imbalance, which means that their body is not making the right amount of hormones to regulate their period. This can happen if someone has a condition like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid problems.

Other causes of abnormal bleeding could be physical problems, like growths or tumors in the uterus, cervix, or ovaries. These growths can cause bleeding that is heavy or irregular. Additionally, some medications or birth control methods can also cause abnormal uterine bleeding.

If someone experiences abnormal uterine bleeding, they should talk to their healthcare provider to determine the cause and find the right treatment. Depending on the cause of the bleeding, treatments may include medications to regulate hormones, surgery to remove growths or tumors, or changes to birth control methods to help regulate the menstrual cycle.