Several surgical procedures can stop or significantly reduce menstrual bleeding. The most common are:
1. Endometrial Ablation
This procedure destroys or removes the endometrium, the lining of the uterus. Multiple methods exist, utilizing heat, cold, or energy to achieve this. Sources like Johns Hopkins Medicine (https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/endometrial-ablation) and the Mayo Clinic (https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/endometrial-ablation/about/pac-20393932) confirm that this surgery is designed to stop or lighten periods. The Royal Women's Hospital (https://www.thewomens.org.au/health-information/periods/heavy-periods/treating-with-surgery) also lists it as an option for managing heavy periods. NovaSure is one example of an endometrial ablation procedure (https://www.hey.nhs.uk/patient-leaflet/novasure-procedure-heavy-menstrual-bleeding/). The FDA also recognizes its use in treating heavy menstrual bleeding (https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/surgery-devices/endometrial-ablation-heavy-menstrual-bleeding).
2. Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus. This is the only procedure guaranteed to completely stop menstrual bleeding, as confirmed by the Women's Health website (https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/hysterectomy). It is often considered for women experiencing heavy or prolonged bleeding, and while it addresses the period, it also results in infertility.
3. Oophorectomy
While not directly stopping periods in the same way as the above procedures, a bilateral oophorectomy (removal of both ovaries) induces menopause, effectively ending menstrual cycles. The Mayo Clinic (https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/oophorectomy/about/pac-20385030) clearly states that removing both ovaries will stop periods.
It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action based on individual circumstances and health history.
