In most women this is due to an hormonal imbalance i.e. too much oestrogen and little progesterone. Other causes of abnormal uterine bleeding include:

• Uterine polyps
  
  
• Uterine fibroids
  
  
• Ectropion (inflammation of the cervix)
  
  
• Uterine cancer - this is rare

Investigations

• Ultrasound of the pelvis
  
  
• Endometrial pipelle
  
  
• Hysteroscopy - if there are concerns, a sample is removed from the lining of the uterus. This is checked in the histology department for abnormal cells.

Treatment

This will depend on the cause. If it is due to an hormonal imbalance the oral contraceptive pill may be appropriate.

If polyps are present at the time of the hysteroscopy, it may be possible to remove these from the lining of the uterus.