Management of abnormal uterine bleeding in the adolescent patient.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is a common complaint in adolescents and is mostly treated with hormonal medication. This review provides an update on adolescent AUB evaluation and treatment.

RECENT FINDINGS: Anovulatory cycles and coagulopathies remain the most common reasons for AUB. Structural causes of AUB are still overall rare in adolescents, but recent advances in imaging techniques show they are more prevalent than previously thought. Since hormonal medication is the main treatment for AUB, acknowledging updates about their safety in certain populations is necessary. Investigations on nonhormonal medications for AUB and conservative surgical approaches are promising.

SUMMARY: Recent updates to the safety of hormonal interventions impact management of AUB in adolescents. More research is needed to identify novel methods for managing AUB, as this can have negative impacts on both physical and mental health.