Novasure

[blueskies]

Hi Silver,

I had the Novasure uterine ablation done last spring, after years of heavy frequent periods, & have been very happy with the results.

Here's what I remember... before the procedure, my doctor did a uterine biopsy. Basically, it was like having a pap smear done, but he just nicked off a little bit of the uterus or lining. He did it right in his office, no drugs needed, during the appointment where we discussed the procedure. I can't remember what he said that he was checking for, but he said it was an important precaution.

Secondly, I do remember him saying that there are different causes of heavy periods, and that the uterine ablation worked better for some than for others. I think (and this is just my memory), that he said that it doesn't work as well if fibroids are the cause of the bleeding problems. I didn't have fibroids. He said that I was a good candidate for a good result. I just had heavy, long (7 day) unpredictable periods, often every 3 weeks. I was basically having heavy bleeding one-third of my days. Blech!

I had the procedure done in the out patient unit of a hospital, and was sedated while it was done. There was no incision. The recovery was quite easy, I think that I took one pain pill the night that it was done & that was all. I was told to stay off my bike & no vigorous exercise for 2 weeks. I was able to walk & do my regular activities the next day.

There was some discharge for several weeks, gradually lessening. Since then, I haven't had a period at all. Some months, I have a tiny bit of spotting for an hour or two. Not enough to even call a period.

It was so wonderful to be able to plan rides, trips, and now skiing, with no worries about managing an unexpected heavy period. The feeling of freedom and ease is wonderful.

OTOH, I did learn, after the fact, that the ablation placed me at risk of later developing something called "Post-ablation tubal sterilization syndrome," because I'd previously had a tubal ligation (sterilization). If you've had your tubes tied, this is something to know about. Learning about this did give me some moments of "What have I done to my poor old uterus?"

On balance, I am happy that I had it done. It improved my quality of life. Time will tell if I have to pay the piper...