Management of abnormal bleeding in adolescents.

Menstrual dysfunction is a common gynecologic problem for adolescents. While the majority of abnormal uterine bleeding is the result of dysfunctional ovulatory patterns, other illnesses or conditions can be underlying problem bleeding. Successful diagnosis and management of these conditions in adolescents requires a firm understanding of the normal menstrual process. Professionals who treat adolescents must develop specialized strategies and skills to optimize history taking, examination, and treatment in this group.