What is the most common cause of abnormal uterine bleeding in reproductive-age women?

• A. Uterine fibroids
• B. Endometrial cancer
• C. Hormonal imbalance
• D. Pelvic inflammatory disease

Answer: (C)

Hormonal imbalance is indeed the most common cause of abnormal uterine bleeding in reproductive-age women. This type of bleeding can result from a disruption in the normal hormonal regulation of the menstrual cycle, often related to either an excess or deficiency of estrogen and progesterone. In these women, the endometrium, or uterine lining, can respond inappropriately to hormonal signals, leading to irregular bleeding patterns, such as heavy periods (menorrhagia) or skipped cycles (amenorrhea).

While uterine fibroids, endometrial cancer, and pelvic inflammatory disease can contribute to abnormal bleeding, they are less common causes in the general reproductive-age population compared to hormonal imbalances. For instance, uterine fibroids can cause bleeding, but not all women with fibroids experience abnormal bleeding, and they tend to be more prevalent in older women. Endometrial cancer is also a cause of abnormal bleeding, but it is much rarer in younger women. Pelvic inflammatory disease, primarily associated with infections, can lead to irregularities but is not as frequent a cause of abnormal bleeding in reproductive-aged women as hormonal issues. Thus, hormonal imbalance stands out as the prevalent underlying factor for abnormal uterine bleeding in this demographic.