Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB)
What is abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB)?
Many women experience heavy menstrual bleeding at some point in their lives. But for one in four women,
every cycle is heavy—and that’s not normal. Doctors call this condition "abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB)"
or "menorrhagia."
How heavy is too heavy?
Although every woman experiences her period differently, most doctors define a normal, healthy period by
a few standard criteria.
| Normal bleeding: |
Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB): |
 |
|
|
occurs about every 25-31 days
last 4-5 days
totals 2-3 tablespoons
|
can last longer than seven days
may require frequent change of protection, or double protection
may include large blood clots in your flow
may cause tiredness, fatigue or shortness of breath (symptoms of anemia)
|
How to tell if you suffer from AUB
New guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists suggest that if your heavy
periods negatively impact your life and you believe they’re a problem, you should
talk to your doctor.
In the meantime, resources like our Heavy Bleeding Quiz,
Doctor Discussion Guide and summary of
Signs and Symptoms give you the tools you need to live a healthier
life with heavy periods.