Update on the possibilities of hormonal medical treatment for heavy menstrual bleeding

Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is defined as any variation in the menstrual cycle, including changes in the regularity, frequency, duration, or volume of menstrual bleeding. Heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) is the most common type of AUB and is defined as excessive menstrual blood loss that interferes with normal physical, emotional, and social activity and impairs a woman's quality of life. HMB can affect up to 8--27% of women of reproductive age, and is one of the most frequent reasons for gynaecological consultations and a problem that has a great impact on women's quality of life, involving significant resource expenditure for the health system. Treatment of HMB aims to reduce the amount of menstrual bleeding, correct anaemia, prevent recurrence, and improve quality of life. Among the different treatments available that have shown some efficacy in the control of HMB are non-hormonal medical treatment (NSAIDs, antifibrinolytics), hormonal treatment (LNG-IUDs, combined hormonal contraceptives, gesta -gens), and surgical treatment. Any of these treatments should be combined with ferrotherapy in case of anaemia or associated iron deficiency. The aim of this article is to review the different hormonal treatments available for the management of HMB.& COPY; 2022 Elsevier Espana, S.L.U. All rights reserved.