Women's Health Community

Here's a lengthy discussion of women's experiences with ablation - http://forums.webmd.com/3/gynecology-exchange/forum/12649/49#49

I had a hysterectomy and my health and quality of life have suffered ever since. Sex isn't the same either. I wish I'd done a lot more research and sought out a doctor who only uses conservative treatments that preserve our organs and their natural functions.

Just be sure you're completely comfortable with any procedure because there's no reversing it. Do your own research to get all the facts.

Has the cause of the bleeding been determined? Fibroids, polyps and adenomyosis are some possible causes. Fibroids and polyps can be removed similar to doing a lumpectomy on the breast or removing a cyst on/in the body. I recall a doctor saying that sometimes adenomyosis can be removed similar to how fibroids are removed - just depends on the specifics of the case. Sometimes a D&C will resolve heavy bleeding.

Also, endocrine problems such as thyroid or pituitary can cause menstrual irregularities.

I assume you've tried a number of other "meds" (hormonal - BC options such as pills, ring, Mirena, non-hormonal such as Lysteda, NSAIDs). Supplementing with iron may be needed to keep from becoming anemic and I've read that it may also lessen bleeding - don't know if that's true.

Here's a comprehensive link about Heavy Menstrual Bleeding. Scroll down to the Contents and click on the sections you want to read and it will take you there. Section 8 addresses medications - http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0015963/

Yes, we have tried everything except the IUD at this point. Seasonique and now I am back to the traditional old Ortho Novum pill. I have had (very painful) biopsy last. Lusteda seems to be doing nothing. The cramps are almost dibilitating. I am missing work due to the very heavy flow ( 1 tampon an hour ) is having a major effect on my sleep.

Nothing is abnormal so it has been brought back to the Depo shot being the culprit. I have been taking Iron pills so I am hanging on at 11.7 when 11.5 is normal.

I am leery to do the partial hysterectomy but am also worried about the ablation not working for me either and having to do the hysterectomy later anyway.

Have you tried using a menstrual cup instead of tampons? I think they're supposed to hold more. Some brands that come to mind are Divacup, Mooncup, Instead.

Of course, this won't address the cramps. I assume you've tried Aleve for that.

Ibuprofen 800mg.. motrin, pamprin, rx aleve. Nothing is helping for the pain and you have to be careful w/ pain meds and Lusteda.

I agree - you can't use too much of those meds!! Good luck in getting this treated.