Advanced Options
New minimally invasive procedures provide an alternative to hysterectomies
By Paula Felps

Heavy periods sideline one out of five women each month. In addition to creating embarrassing situations, it can restrict activities and lead to severe fatigue and even anemia. In the past, a hysterectomy has been the solution of choice, but now minimally-invasive procedures can resolve the problem with a single visit to the doctor's office.

"For those who have already been through their child-bearing years, endometrial ablation is the best way to end heavy bleeding," said Dr. Jay Staub of the Dallas Health Central Women's Care clinic. "It's an alternative to hysterectomies that destroys the lining of the uterus to stop uterine bleeding."

Dr. Staub uses a procedure called NovaSure, which uses controlled doses of energy to cauterize the lining of the uterus. The patient experiences "conscious sedation," in which she is given a light anesthetic that puts her to sleep for about three to five minutes. The entire procedure is performed in the office and takes about ten to fifteen minutes. "It's a light anesthetic, enough so they don't feel what we're doing," Dr. Staub said "There's no incision, so there's no recovery time." He said that approximately sixty-five percent of patients report having no periods after the NovaSure procedure and thirty to thirty-five percent of patients have light periods.

"Women love it, '' he said "These are people who were bothered by terrible, heavy periods, and now they can enjoy a normal life."