Hormone Releasing IUD
A hormone-releasing intrauterine device (IUD) is inserted into the uterus and releases a steady amount of progestins which may help control bleeding. It can take up to 6 months to regulate bleeding. Breakthrough bleeding is a common complaint and a primary reason for discontinued use.1 More than 40% of women do not experience a satisfactory improvement in bleeding and go on to have a hysterectomy(1). Hormonal side effects include breast tenderness, mood changes, and acne. Potential drawbacks include abdominal pain, infection, and difficult insertions.
Unlike an edometrial ablation procedure that is performed only once to control heavy bleeding, a hormone-releasing IUD must be removed and replaced periodically.
Reference: 1. Hurskainen R, Teperi J, Rissanen P, et al. Clinical outcomes and costs with ther levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system of hysterectomy for treatment of menorrhagia: randomized trial 5-year follow-up. JAMA 2004; 291: 1456-1463.