Ladies, have you tried any of the latest and greatest products on the market for periods? There are MANY different options out there. Period panties? Organic Tampons? Menstrual Cups? I wanna know what works for you! Click here to let me know what you use!
In the interim, today’s blog post focuses on treatment options for heavy periods. It doesn’t always have to be a hysterectomy! Trust me, I know.
So your periods are ruining your life! Here are a few things to consider:
Oral Contraceptive Pills. Birth control pills are good for more than just pregnancy prevention. How about making your periods lighter, shorter, less painful, regular. If you happen to be over 35, as long as you don’t happen to have any medical contraindications to being on the pill(ask your obgyn about this), it’s safe for you to. The other nice thing about the pill is that it can help transition you right into menopause by tempering those dreaded symptoms of hot flashes, night sweats, irregular bleeding, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, etc.
Hormone containing iuds. IUDs(intrauterine devices), the Mirena specifically, is oft times used to treat heavy periods. In comparative studies, the Mirena rivaled ablative procedures regarding patient satisfaction for dealing with heavy periods. The nice thing about this option is that it can be inserted in the office and, unlike ablative procedures(depending on the type you get), doesn’t require a trip to the OR. The other great thing about this option is that it also serves as contraception. Don’t forget, no matter how irregular your periods are, if you are still getting them, I’m speaking to my peri-menopausal crew, you can still get pregnant. Every year I can count on one hand the number of women I see with a surprise pregnancy all because they didn’t think it could happen to them.
Ablative procedures. There are numerous types of ablative procedures on the market ranging from those that freeze or burn the uterine lining. The type of ablative procedure selected depends on physician preference as well as the shape and size of your uterus. Some ablative procedures can be done in an office setting. Others require a trip to the OR. Of note, ablative procedures are not contraception! You will need something in place for contraception as if you become pregnant after an ablative procedure the pregnancy would be high risk.
Lysteda. This is a great option. Non-hormonal. Highly under utilized, primarily because I don’t think a lot of women know it’s even an option. It’s taken only during your period. I have used it with great success. Consider this if you are looking for a less invasive, or “minimalist” approach.
Hysterectomy. Last but not least, if all else fails, you could always just have your uterus removed. I wouldn’t enter into this too lightly. Make sure that your obgyn has gone over risks/benefits and that you are making an informed decision; i.e., you are aware of all treatment options and understand potential complications, recovery time, etc. I would also seek out a minimally invasive surgeon(self included)who can offer you a laparoscopic/robotic approach. You’ll heal faster, have less blood loss, and be back to yourself in no time.
Heavy periods. There are options.
Hoping today’s blog post was informative. Would love to hear from you.
Until next time,
Look Better. Feel Better. Be Better.
Dr. Angela
