How is dysfunctional uterine bleeding treated?
A number of treatment options are available for heavy uterine bleeding that has no serious cause (dysfunctional uterine bleeding). While some are meant to return the menstrual cycle to normal, others are used to reduce bleeding or to eliminate menstruation. Each of these options works well for some women, but not others. Treatments include: • Watchful waiting for a teen or a woman approaching menopause. Menstrual cycles usually even out and lighten as a teen matures; they end at menopause. • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen. NSAIDs reduce high levels of prostaglandins, which are linked to heavy uterine bleeding. Women with very heavy bleeding are likely to gain the greatest benefit from NSAID therapy. • Hormone treatment. The levonorgestrel IUD releases a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone into the uterus. This reduces bleeding while preventing pregnancy. • If you’ve been bleeding heavily because of low progesterone (needed for ovula
