Before having an invasive surgery like a hysterectomy, most women opt to try less dramatic courses of treatment, including medication, hormone therapy and surgical treatments. Each woman is different, but the following treatments may be an option, rather than a hysterectomy.
Nerve block An outpatient procedure typically performed by an anesthesiologist, who injects an anesthetic into the nerve that is responsible for conducting pain messages to the brain. When a nerve is blocked the pain cannot be transmitted to the brain, so it is no longer felt. The block is temporary, but can be repeated.
Medication Therapy Prescription medications are used to treat both the symptoms and causes of uterine problems. Pain medication can be given for chronic pain sufferers and hormone therapy can be used to reduce endometriosis symptoms.
Myomectomy An outpatient surgery to remove fibroids, a myomectomy is performed using a telescopic instrument inserted through the cervix that is used to remove fibroids. If the fibroids are too large to remove through the cervix, a small abdominal incision can be made for the removal of the growths.
Ablation A treatment for heavy or chronic bleeding, ablation is an outpatient technique where an instrument is inserted into through the cervix into the uterus to destroy the endometrial tissue. The endometrium is cut or seared to damage the tissue and end bleeding. This treatment is not for those who wish to remain fertile.
Balloon Therapy A balloon is inserted through the cervix into the uterus then inflated to fit the inside of the uterus. It is then filled with hot water for eight minutes, effectively destroying the endometrial lining of the uterus which is typically responsible for chronic bleeding. This procedure is not for anyone who wants to become pregnant.
