Understanding Acute Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: Insights From an Interdisciplinary Panel

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Gynecology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Chronic abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is well-studied, but acute heavy menstrual bleeding (AHMB) receives limited attention.
• AHMB is defined as heavy menstrual bleeding requiring immediate intervention, often in women with pre-existing chronic AUB and iron deficiency.
• Limited research and clinical guidance exist for AHMB management worldwide.

Purpose of the Study:

• To raise awareness of AHMB, including its pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and management.
• To identify evidence gaps and barriers hindering research on AHMB interventions.
• To examine the need for effective clinical guidance for managing AHMB.

Main Methods:

• A virtual multidisciplinary panel meeting convened experts from various specialties.
• The panel discussed existing literature and clinical experience regarding AHMB.
• The meeting aimed to synthesize current knowledge and identify future research directions.

Main Results:

• AHMB management necessitates a multidisciplinary approach involving primary care, pediatrics, gynecology, hematology, and emergency medicine.
• Significant challenges exist in conducting clinically relevant and well-designed research on AHMB.
• There is a critical need for improved clinician education and guidance for AHMB management.

Conclusions:

• AHMB is a significant clinical problem requiring greater research focus and improved management strategies.
• Addressing evidence gaps through rigorous research is essential for developing effective interventions.
• Enhanced clinical guidance and multidisciplinary collaboration are crucial for optimizing patient care in AHMB.