The role of hormones in the pathogenesis of abnormal uterine bleeding and endometrial hyperplasia

Abstract

Abnormal uterine bleeding is the single most common complaint that reproductive age women bring to their clinicians. Bleeding associated with a wide range of pathologies inside andoutside the reproductive tract can masquerade as anovulatory bleeding. A thorough menstrual history and physical examination usually provide most of the information needed to distinguish anovulation from other causes of abnormal bleeding. Many of the published studies are restricted to estimates ofthe prevalence of the symptoms of heavy menstrual bleeding; when other symptoms, particularly those of irregular and intermenstrual bleeding are included, the prevalence rises to 35% or higher