FAU Advanced Health Assessment Practice Test

What is metrorrhagia?

1. Heavy menstrual bleeding

2. Uterine bleeding at irregular intervals

3. Bleeding after intercourse

4. Painful menstruation

The correct answer is: Uterine bleeding at irregular intervals

Metrorrhagia is defined as uterine bleeding that occurs at irregular intervals, which is why this choice is the correct answer. This term specifically refers to bleeding that happens outside of the expected menstrual periods, indicating an abnormal pattern of uterine bleeding. It may point to various underlying conditions that could affect the endometrium or other structures within the reproductive system, such as hormonal imbalances, fibroids, or other pathologies. The other terms listed have distinct definitions: heavy menstrual bleeding is referred to as menorrhagia and represents an excessive flow during the normal menstrual cycle; bleeding after intercourse is known as postcoital bleeding, often associated with cervical or vaginal issues; and painful menstruation is termed dysmenorrhea, which describes the discomfort some individuals experience during their menstrual cycles. Each of these conditions describes different phenomena related to menstruation or reproductive health, further distinguishing them from the irregular bleeding defined by metrorrhagia.