Table of Contents

What is considered irregular bleeding?
What causes irregular bleeding?
When should I seek medical advice for irregular bleeding?
How is the cause of irregular bleeding diagnosed?
What are the treatment options for irregular bleeding?
Can lifestyle changes improve irregular bleeding?
Can an endometrial ablation treat irregular bleeding?
Who is a candidate for endometrial ablation?
How is endometrial ablation performed?
What are the risks associated with endometrial ablation?
What is the recovery for endometrial ablation?
What results can you expect after an endometrial ablation?
What kind of endometrial ablation do we use at Epiphany?
How does NovaSure® work?
What are the benefits of NovaSure®?

What is considered irregular bleeding?

Irregular bleeding refers to any variation from the normal menstrual cycle that affects the frequency, regularity, duration, or volume of blood flow.

This includes periods that come more frequently than every 21 days or less often than every 35 days, bleeding between periods, excessively heavy bleeding during periods, or menstrual cycles that vary significantly in length from month to month.

What causes irregular bleeding?

Various factors can cause irregular bleeding, including hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, endometriosis, and the use of certain medications like birth control pills or intrauterine devices (IUDs).

Stress, significant weight changes, and perimenopause can also contribute to irregular bleeding patterns.

When should I seek medical advice for irregular bleeding?

It's important to consult a healthcare provider if you experience any form of irregular bleeding that is new or concerning, especially if it's accompanied by other symptoms like pain, fatigue, or dizziness.

Seeking medical advice is crucial for bleeding after menopause, as it requires immediate evaluation to rule out serious conditions such as endometrial cancer.

How is the cause of irregular bleeding diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a detailed medical history, a physical examination, and possibly several tests. These tests may include blood work to check hormone levels and thyroid function, pelvic ultrasound to look for uterine fibroids or polyps, and sometimes an endometrial biopsy to evaluate the uterine lining for abnormalities.‍

What are the treatment options for irregular bleeding?

‍Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the irregular bleeding and may include:

Lifestyle changes: Managing stress, maintaining a healthy weight, and regular exercise can help balance hormones and manage symptoms.

Non-hormonal medications: NSAIDs like ibuprofen can reduce menstrual bleeding and pain.

Surgical options: For issues like fibroids or polyps, procedures such as hysteroscopic polypectomy or myomectomy may be recommended.

Endometrial ablation: A procedure that destroys the lining of the uterus to reduce or stop bleeding.

Can lifestyle changes improve irregular bleeding?

‍Yes, lifestyle modifications can positively impact hormonal balance and menstrual regularity. A diet low in added sugar and high in nutrients, regular physical activity, stress reduction, and achieving or maintaining a healthy weight can all contribute to more regular menstrual cycles and reduce irregular bleeding.

While some women find relief with natural remedies and supplements, such as vitamin B complex, omega-3 fatty acids, or herbal supplements, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. The effectiveness of natural remedies can vary, and they may interact with other medications or underlying health conditions.

Can an endometrial ablation treat irregular bleeding?

Endometrial ablation represents a significant advancement in the treatment of abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB). Aimed at reducing or completely stopping menstrual flow, this minimally invasive procedure targets the endometrium, or the lining of the uterus, which is responsible for menstrual bleeding.

Endometrial ablation involves the removal or destruction of the endometrium. It's primarily recommended for women who suffer from heavy menstrual bleeding who haven't responded to other treatments. The procedure is varied, employing several techniques such as laser energy, heat (thermal ablation), cold (cryoablation), electricity, or microwave energy to achieve the desired outcome.

Who is a candidate for endometrial ablation?

Candidates for endometrial ablation are typically women experiencing severe menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) that interferes with daily activities and quality of life. It's most suitable for those:

● Who have completed childbearing, as pregnancy after ablation can be dangerous
● Whose menstrual bleeding hasn't improved with medication or non-invasive treatments
● Who wish to avoid or are unable to undergo a hysterectomy

It's not recommended for women with certain uterine conditions, such as active or recent pelvic infection, endometrial hyperplasia, or uterine cancer.

How is endometrial ablation performed?

Endometrial ablation is generally an outpatient procedure, meaning women can go home the same day. It can be performed in a hospital or a clinic setting. At Epiphany Women’s Health, we perform most endometrial ablations in our clinic. 

Before the procedure, medications may be given to dilate (open) the cervix. The procedure usually takes less than an hour to complete.

What are the risks associated with endometrial ablation?

While endometrial ablation is safe and effective for many women, it carries some risks, as do all medical procedures. These may include:

● Post-procedure pain and cramping
● Nausea and vomiting
● Infection
● Bleeding
● Rarely, perforation of the uterine wall or thermal injury to nearby organs

What is the recovery for endometrial ablation?

Recovery after endometrial ablation is typically quick, with most women resuming normal activities within a few days. It's common to experience some vaginal discharge, which may start as bloody and shift to watery and then cease over several weeks. Cramping can occur but usually subsides within a few days.

What results can you expect after an endometrial ablation?

Endometrial ablation significantly reduces menstrual bleeding in most women. Up to 50% of women report no menstrual flow at all after the procedure. Others may continue to have periods but with much lighter bleeding. It's important to note that ablation is not a form of contraception, and although pregnancy is much less likely after the procedure, it can still occur and be risky.

What kind of endometrial ablation do we use at Epiphany?

NovaSure is a specific form of endometrial ablation that is efficient and effective in treating abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB). NovaSure is a one-time, five-minute procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to remove the endometrium, the lining of the uterus responsible for menstrual bleeding.

How does NovaSure® work?

The NovaSure® procedure typically involves the following steps:

● The woman is given local anesthesia or light sedation to ensure comfort during the procedure.
● A slender device is inserted through the cervix into the uterus.
● A triangular mesh device within is gently expanded to fit the size and shape of the uterus.
● Radiofrequency energy is delivered for about 90 seconds to ablate (remove) the endometrial lining.
● The device is retracted, and the procedure is complete.

What are the benefits of NovaSure®?

The benefits of NovaSure® include:

● Short Procedure Time: The entire process takes about five minutes to perform, with the active treatment phase lasting approximately 90 seconds.
● Minimal Anesthesia Required: NovaSure can often be performed using local anesthesia or light sedation, reducing the risks associated with general anesthesia.
● Quick Recovery: Most women return to their normal activities within a day or two.
● High Success Rate: Many women experience a significant reduction in menstrual bleeding, and some may stop having periods altogether.

It is also important to note that NovaSure® is not recommended for women who have uterine cancer or certain types of uterine conditions, who are postmenopausal, or who have an IUD currently in place.

NovaSure® offers a promising solution for women seeking relief from heavy menstrual bleeding without undergoing major surgery or relying on hormone therapy.

As with any medical procedure, it's crucial to discuss all options, benefits, and risks with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment based on individual health needs and life circumstances. NovaSure® has enabled many women to experience improved quality of life through a simple, one-time procedure, marking a significant step forward in the management of abnormal uterine bleeding.

Next steps...

We are conveniently located in Peoria, IL and Fairhope, AL. We are here to get you back on top of your game and living your best life.

If you’re ready to take the first step toward treating your irregular bleeding, please book an appointment online.