Levonorgestrel releasing intrauterine system (Mirena) versus endometrial ablation (Novasure) in women with heavy menstrual bleeding: a multicentre randomised controlled trial

BMC Womens Health. 2013 Aug 8:13:32. doi: 10.1186/1472-6874-13-32.

Abstract

Background: Heavy menstrual bleeding is an important health problem. Two frequently used therapies are the levonorgestrel intra-uterine system (LNG-IUS) and endometrial ablation. The LNG-IUS can be applied easily by the general practitioner, which saves costs, but has considerable failure rates. As an alternative, endometrial ablation is also very effective, but this treatment has to be performed by a gynaecologist. Due to lack of direct comparison of LNG-IUS with endometrial ablation, there is no evidence based preferred advice for the use of one of these treatment possibilities.

Method/design: A multicenter randomised controlled trial, organised in a network infrastructure in the Netherlands in which general practitioners and gynaecologists collaborate.

Discusson: This study, considering both effectiveness and cost effectiveness of LNG-IUS versus endometrial ablation may well improve care for women with heavy menstrual bleeding.

Trial registration: Dutch trial register, number NTR2984.

Publication types

  • Multicenter Study
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Contraceptive Agents, Female / administration & dosage*
  • Endometrial Ablation Techniques / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intrauterine Devices, Medicated / statistics & numerical data*
  • Levonorgestrel / administration & dosage*
  • Netherlands
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Women's Health
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Contraceptive Agents, Female
  • Levonorgestrel

Associated data

  • NTR/NTR2984