Open AccessAbnormal uterine bleeding: advantages of formal classification to patients, clinicians and researchers
Author(s) -
Madhra Mayank,
Fraser Ian S.,
Munro Malcolm G.,
Critchley Hilary O. D.
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
acta obstetricia et gynecologica scandinavica
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.401
H-Index - 102
eISSN - 1600-0412
pISSN - 0001-6349
DOI - 10.1111/aogs.12390
Subject(s) - medicine , terminology , confusion , uterine bleeding , perspective (graphical) , scientific literature , intensive care medicine , gynecology , artificial intelligence , psychology , philosophy , linguistics , computer science , psychoanalysis , biology , paleontology
Objective To highlight the advantages of formal classification of causes of abnormal uterine bleeding from a clinical and scientific perspective. Design Review and recommendations for local implementation. Setting In the past, research in the field of menstrual disorders has not been funded adequately with respect to the impact of symptoms on individuals, healthcare systems and society. This was confounded by a diverse terminology, which lead to confusion between clinical and scientific groups, ultimately harming the underlying evidence base. To address this, a formal classification system ( PALM ‐ COEIN ) for the causes of abnormal uterine bleeding has been published for worldwide use by FIGO (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics). Population and main outcome measures This commentary explains problems created by the prior absence of such a system, the potential advantages stemming from its use, and practical suggestions for local implementation. Results and conclusions The PALM ‐ COEIN classification is applicable globally and, as momentum gathers, will ameliorate recurrence of historic problems, and harmonise reporting of clinical and scientific research to facilitate future progress in women's health.