Heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) is defined objectively as menstrual blood loss exceeding what volume per cycle?

• A >60 mL per cycle
• B >80 mL per cycle ✓
• C >100 mL per cycle
• D >120 mL per cycle

Explanation

Objectively, heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB, formerly menorrhagia) is defined as menstrual blood loss >80 mL per cycle, associated with iron deficiency anemia. This threshold was established by alkaline hematin method in population studies. Clinically, the NICE 2007 guidelines (updated 2018) define HMB as excessive menstrual blood loss that interferes with physical, social, emotional, or material quality of life, reflecting that subjective impact is now preferred for clinical decision-making over objective measurement.

Reference: Shaw's Textbook of Gynaecology, 17th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.