The FIGO classification of causes of abnormal uterine bleeding in the reproductive years

At this juncture, clinical management, education for medical providers, and the design and interpretation of clinical trials have been hampered by the absence of a consensus system for nomenclature for the description of symptoms as well as classification of causes or potential causes of abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB). To address this issue, the Federation Internationale de Gynecologie et d'Obstetrique (FIGO) has designed the PALM-COEIN (Polyp, Adenomyosis, Leiomyoma, Malignancy and Hyperplasia, Coagulopathy, Ovulatory Disorders, Endometrial Disorders, Iatrogenic Causes, and Not Classified) classification system for causes of AUB in the reproductive years. (Fertil Steril (R) 2011;95:2204-8. (C)2011 by American Society for Reproductive Medicine.)