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Procedure Timeline

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Here's what you can expect before, during, and after the NovaSure procedure:

Before the NovaSure^® procedure

• The procedure can be scheduled any time during your menstrual cycle, even if you are bleeding at the time. Your doctor will give you a pregnancy test before the procedure to confirm you are not pregnant.
• You may be given an anti-inflammatory medicine, to take an hour or two before the procedure, to reduce discomfort.

During the NovaSure procedure

• Your doctor may inject a local anesthetic into your uterus (the cervix). No general anesthesia is required, so you will probably be awake during the procedure.
• Your doctor slightly opens your cervix (the opening to the uterus), inserts a slender wand, and extends a triangular mesh device into the uterus.
• The mesh gently expands, fitting to the size and shape of your uterus.
• Precisely measured radio frequency energy is delivered through the mesh for about 90 seconds.
• The mesh device is pulled back into the wand, and both are removed from the uterus.
• The entire procedure usually takes less than 5 minutes.

Right after the NovaSure procedure

• Before you leave the doctor’s office, you will receive discharge instructions. These instructions typically include the following information:
  • Have someone drive you home.
  • Do not drive, operate potentially dangerous machinery, sign legal documents or make critical decisions the day of the procedure. You may resume regular activities the next day.
  • A heating pad placed on your lower abdomen can help to reduce cramping.
  • Consult your physician about medication to help reduce cramping.
  • You may shower the same day but refrain from swimming and baths.
  • Please refrain from anything in the vagina for 4 weeks. This includes tampons and intercourse.
  • Call your doctor if you have...
    ...increased abnormal discharge.
    ...increased post-procedural pain.
    ...increased bleeding.
    ...fever above 100.4F.
• Be sure to check with your own doctor to find out what your specific discharge instructions are.
• Most women report little or no pain, and return to their regular activities within a day.

Permanent contraception with NovaSure

• When you have the NovaSure procedure, you’ll need long-term birth control, since it’s still possible to become pregnant and a pregnancy after any ablation procedure is unsafe for both mother and fetus.

Download a free brochure about the NovaSure procedure.

The information above was obtained from the Hologic NovaSure website.