A Hospital-Based Observational Study on the Association between BMI and Patterns of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

Abstract

Background: Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is one of the most common gynecological disorders affecting women of reproductive and perimenopausal age groups. Among various contributing factors, body mass index (BMI) plays a significant role by influencing hormonal balance, endometrial receptivity, and ovulatory function.

Methods: This observational study was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Patna Medical College and Hospital, Patna, Bihar, India, over a period of 12 months. A total of 120 women aged 18–50 years presenting with AUB were enrolled. Each participant underwent detailed menstrual history, clinical examination, BMI calculation, and relevant investigations. BMI was classified as per WHO guidelines. Associations between BMI and bleeding patterns were analyzed using appropriate statistical tests.

Results: Among the 120 women studied, a majority (60.8%) were found to be overweight or obese. Menorrhagia (43.3%) and polymenorrhea (24.2%) were the most common bleeding patterns in women with elevated BMI. A significant correlation was observed between higher BMI and irregular menstrual cycles, increased bleeding duration, and chronic anovulatory states (p < 0.01).

Conclusion: An elevated BMI is significantly associated with various abnormal bleeding patterns in women. Weight-related hormonal imbalances appear to contribute to the pathophysiology of AUB, highlighting the importance of weight management in such patients.