Abnormal uterine bleeding in adolescents

Area of Science:

• Gynecology
• Adolescent Medicine
• Reproductive Health

Background:

• Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is a frequent diagnosis in adolescent females.
• Standardized nomenclature and evidence-based guidelines for AUB in adolescents have been recently updated.
• Variability in clinical practice persists despite updated guidelines.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current definition, etiologies, pathophysiology, evaluation, and management of AUB in adolescent females.
• To emphasize updated, universally accepted nomenclature and clinical care guidelines.
• To highlight the importance of focusing evaluation on common adolescent AUB causes, such as non-structural etiologies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing definitions, etiologies, pathophysiology, evaluation, and management of AUB in adolescents.
• Analysis of current evidence-based guidelines and standardized nomenclature.
• Emphasis on distinguishing adolescent AUB etiologies from those prevalent in adult females.

Main Results:

• Updated terminology, including "abnormal uterine bleeding" and "heavy menstrual bleeding," replaces older terms.
• Evaluation should prioritize common adolescent causes, differentiating them from adult-specific etiologies.
• Evidence-based care practices are crucial for managing AUB in this population.

Conclusions:

• Standardized nomenclature and evidence-based evaluation are essential for optimal AUB management in adolescents.
• Clinicians must understand and apply current guidelines to improve care quality and address the high prevalence of AUB.
• Focusing on non-structural causes is key for accurate diagnosis and treatment in adolescent females.