NovaSure for heavy periods (endometrial ablation) at Spire Edinburgh Hospitals Murrayfield and Shawfair Park

Heavy menstrual bleeding can be very difficult to live with. It's hard to carry on with everyday life when you're exhausted and worried about embarrassing accidents. Yet the NovaSure system could help free you of heavy bleeding so you can enjoy the things you love and live life to the full.

NovaSure can treat heavy bleeding quickly, safely and effectively. As a genuine alternative to a hysterectomy, it's an innovative treatment that can make all the difference.

NovaSure is a new generation of endometrial ablation treatment. It uses precisely measured electrical energy to permanently remove the lining of the uterus (endometrium) via a slender hand-held wand.

After treatment, most women will experience much lighter menstrual bleeding - some women's periods stop completely. If you haven't gone through the menopause yet and don't want to have any more children, then NovaSure may be your answer to heavy bleeding. The treatment will be suitable for most women with heavy periods.

Other benefits include:

• Many women have less painful periods and fewer PMS symptoms.
• Unlike other endometrial ablation procedures, you won't need to take pre-treatment drug.
• The treatment itself lasts for only around 90 seconds.
• Return to normal activities generally takes one to two days.
• The treatment can be carried out at any time during your cycle (even during your period).
• The results are permanent and satisfaction rates amongst women are extremely high.

Our patients are at the heart of what we do and we want you to be in control of your care. To us, that means you can choose the consultant you want to see, and when you want. They'll be with you every step of the way.

All of our consultants are of the highest calibre and benefit from working in our modern, well-equipped hospitals.

Our consultants have high standards to meet, often holding specialist NHS posts and delivering expertise in complex sub-specialty surgeries. Many of our consultants have international reputations for their research in their specialised field.

You will have a formal consultation with a healthcare professional. During this time you will be able to explain your medical history, symptoms and raise any concerns that you might have.

We will also discuss with you whether any further diagnostic tests, such as scans or blood tests, are needed. Any additional costs will be discussed before further tests are carried out.

We've tried to make your experience with us as easy and relaxed as possible.

For more information on visiting hours, our food, what to pack if you're staying with us, parking and all those other important practicalities, please visit our patient information pages.

Our dedicated team will also give you tailored advice to follow in the run up to your visit.

During the procedure, the consultant slightly dilates the cervix so that the wand can enter the uterus. Once inside, the wand expands to fit the size and shape of the uterus meaning that the energy can be delivered accurately and quickly (in around 90 seconds). As soon as the lining is removed, the energy automatically stops and the treatment is over.

We are committed to delivering excellent individual care and customer service across our network of hospitals, clinics and specialist care centres around the UK. Our dedicated and highly trained team aim to achieve consistently excellent results. For us it's more than just treating patients, it's about looking after people.

Important to note

The treatment described on this page may be adapted to meet your individual needs, so it's important to follow your healthcare professional's advice and raise any questions that you may have with them.