If you are one of the 10 million women suffering from abnormal uterine bleeding, perhaps polyps or fibroids, which grow inside the uterine cavity, are to blame. Often heavy or irregular bleeding between menstrual cycles is due to polyps, while heavy, irregular, or prolonged bleeding during the time of your period can be caused by fibroids.

Polyps – Polyp chances increase with age and most peak between ages 40 to 50. Usually polyps are not cancerous; however the risk goes up with age, family history of cancer, and other risk factors such as post-menopausal bleeding. It is important to discuss the treatment of polyps if you plan to become pregnant as they can lead to infertility.

Fibroids – Fibroids sometimes go unnoticed, but often cause back pain, pelvic pain, and heavy or prolonged or frequent bleeding. Fibroids are not typically associated with an increased risk of uterine cancer and they rarely develop into cancer. However, fibroids are a common health issue. Fibroids which grow and bulge into the uterine cavity have been associated with infertility.

Abnormal uterine bleeding can include the following:

• Prolonged bleeding
• Irregular bleeding
• Heavy or irregular period bleeding
• Post-menopausal bleeding

TRUCLEAR Procedure – In the past, a doctor may have prescribed hysterectomy or cauterization of the tissues as the appropriate solution to uterine fibroids and polyps. Today, your choice is a lot better thanks to the TRUCLEAR Procedure. With the TRUCLEAR Procedure, your physician can remove fibroids and polyps while keeping your uterus intact, which is important to many women and an increasingly popular alternative to the traditional treatments.

Uterine Ablation – Ablation destroys the lining of the uterus with the goal of reducing heavy bleeding. No incisions are needed for uterine ablation, and the procedure can be done in the office or as a surgical procedure. Your physician will evaluate factors such as the condition and size of your uterus to determine which option is best for you.

You might be a candidate for Uterine Ablation if:

• You have unusually heavy periods
• Bleed enough with each period to soak through a pad or tampon every hour
• Experience problems with anemia due to excessive blood loss

Your physician will discuss your symptoms with you and will be able to recommend the appropriate treatment. Be sure to ask her about the TRUCLEAR Procedure or Uterine Ablation to see if you are a candidate. Your physician will talk through the procedure and answer any questions you might have.

If you or a loved one is experiencing prolonged, irregular, heavy, or post-menopausal bleeding, make an appointment to discuss your options and the TRUCLEAR Procedure or Uterine Ablation with a physician today.