What is abnormal uterine bleeding?
Bleeding in any of the following situations is abnormal:
Bleeding between periods
Bleeding after sex
Spotting anytime in the menstrual cycle
Bleeding heavier or for more days than normal
Bleeding after menopause
Menstrual cycles that are longer than 35 days or shorter than 21 days are abnormal. The lack of periods for 3–6 months (amenorrhea) also is abnormal.

What is a normal menstrual cycle?
The menstrual cycle begins with the first day of bleeding of one period and ends with the first day of the next. In most women, this cycle lasts about 28 days. Cycles that are shorter or longer by up to 7 days are normal.

At what ages is abnormal uterine bleeding more common?
Abnormal uterine bleeding can occur at any age. However, at certain times in a woman’s life it is common for periods to be somewhat irregular. They may not occur on schedule in the first few years after a girl has her first period (around age 9–16 years). Cycle length may change as a woman nears menopause (around age 50 years). It also is normal to skip periods or for bleeding to get lighter or heavier at this time.

What causes abnormal uterine bleeding?
Abnormal uterine bleeding can have many causes. They include the following:
Pregnancy
Miscarriage
Ectopic pregnancy
Adenomyosis
Use of some birth control methods, such as an intrauterine device (IUD) or birth control pills
Infection of the uterus or cervix
Fibroids
Problems with blood clotting
Polyps
Endometrial hyperplasia
Certain types of cancer, such as cancer of the uterus, cervix, or vagina
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

What medications are used to help control abnormal uterine bleeding?
Hormonal medications often are used to control abnormal uterine bleeding. The type of hormone you take will depend on whether you want to get pregnant as well as your age. Birth control pills can help make your periods more regular. Hormones also can be given as an injection, as a vaginal cream, or through an IUD that releases hormones. An IUD is a birth control device that is inserted in the uterus. The hormones in the IUD are released slowly and may control abnormal bleeding.

Other medications given for abnormal uterine bleeding include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen), tranexamic acid, and antibiotics. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can control bleeding and reduce menstrual cramps. Tranexamic acid is a drug used to treat heavy menstrual bleeding. Infections are treated with antibiotics.