Can the levonorgestrel intrauterine system replace surgical treatment for the management of menorrhagia?

Abstract

Menorrhagia is a common gynaecological condition for which medical treatment is often ineffective and a large number of women undergo major surgery. Previous short term studies have shown a significant number of women with menstrual problems may avoid surgery if a levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG‐IUS) is fitted but no long term studies exist to ascertain if this benefit is sustained. This four to five year long term follow up study showed 50% of women continued to use the device and 67.4% avoided surgery. The LNG‐IUS is well accepted and effective in the management of menorrhagia and has major cost implications to the National Health Service.