Menorrhagia is defined as unusually heavy or long-lasting menstrual periods, and it occurs in aproximately 1 out of every 5 women. During these heavy periods, women may experience severe pain, the passage of clots, as well as the need to change her pads or tampons very frequently. Bleeding such as this may interfere with ones ability to function at work, at play, and even at home. Causes for this heavy bleeding may include endometrial polyps, fibroids or horomonal imbalances that disrupt the normal cycle and many women are told that their only alternative to control their symptoms is to undergo a hysterectomy.
The Ablation Procedure
Endometrial ablation is the removal or destruction of the lining of the uterus known as the endometrium. By destroying this layer, a woman's bleeding was minimized and her symptoms improved. Newer technologies have made the procedure easier to perform, faster and with better results. The ablation procedure is now usually performed in office as an outpatient and does not require hospitalization. Most women are able return to normal activities the very next day. Ablation is an alternative to hysterectomy for many women with heavy uterine bleeding who wish to avoid major surgery.
NovaSure uses radio frequency (RF) energy to permanently remove the lining of the uterus. During the procedure the physician will slightly dilate the cervix and insert a slender wand through the cervix into the uterus. and a triangular mesh through the wand where it expands to conform to the dimensions of the uterine cavity. RF energy is then delivered into the uterus for approximately 90 seconds.The triangular mesh array slowly retracts and the wand is gently removed from the uterus.