Complications of Heavy Menstrual Bleeding in Adolescents

Abstract

Heavy menstrual bleeding is a very common complaint among adolescents with prevalence rates as high as 37% in this population. Although mortality rates are very low in developed countries where blood products and medications are readily available to manage severe cases, there is significant morbidity, healthcare utilization, and decreased health-related quality of life among adolescents that present with heavy menstrual bleeding. This chapter explores the most common complications of heavy menstrual bleeding including anemia, complications of medical and surgical treatments, as well as the psychosocial and financial impacts of heavy menstrual bleeding.