Abnormal Uterine Bleeding among Adolescents: A Neglected Problem

Abstract

Onset of menstruation is an important indicator of puberty among girls. A large number of adolescents suffer from abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) during the initial months after the onset of menarche. Although menstrual problems seen among most of the adolescents are physiological, however, a large proportion of adolescents suffer from pathological AUB. The knowledge of magnitude and causes of abnormal uterine bleeding among adolescents, pathological as well as physiological, is important to plan strategies for management of this problem. Review of literature was done manually as well as electronically through PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane library, IndMed, Embase and WHO databases. Relevant studies conducted in India as well as other countries were searched. The most common cause (72-80%) of AUB among adolescents is anovulatory cycles due to immature hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. Other causes include bleeding disorders, thyroid disorders, and Polycystic Ovarian Disease. AUB is an important health concern among the adolescents. There is a need to create awareness regarding the physiological and pathological causes of menstrual problems among adolescents. The health care providers also need to be trained for identification and management of this problem.