What characterization is associated with heavy menstrual bleeding without a clear anatomical cause?

Dysfunctional uterine bleeding (DUB) is characterized by heavy menstrual bleeding without an identifiable anatomical cause. This condition typically arises from hormonal disturbances rather than structural issues such as fibroids or polyps. In DUB, the menstrual cycle can become irregular, with bleeding that can be excessively heavy, prolonged, or occur at unexpected times. The absence of identifiable pathology on pelvic examination or imaging further supports this diagnosis.

Menorrhagia refers specifically to prolonged or excessive menstrual bleeding, but it does not specify the underlying cause, which may or may not be dysfunctional. Menometrorrhagia describes prolonged or heavy menstrual bleeding mixed with irregular bleeding between menstrual periods, indicating a broader pattern of bleeding issues. Metrorrhagia refers to bleeding between menstrual periods, which is also distinct from the definitions associated with DUB. Thus, the specific emphasis on a lack of anatomical cause effectively distinguishes dysfunctional uterine bleeding as the most appropriate characterization in this context.