NEW YORK -- Hysterectomies are one of the most common surgical procedures in this country. About 600,000 are performed every year, and a lot of them are done to treat irregular menstrual bleeding.

But now there's a nonsurgical alternative that can treat one of the main conditions that cause women to have hysterectomies.

Novasure is a new procedure that helps stop heavy menstrual bleeding. It's less invasive than a hysterectomy, and the vaginal procedure takes about 90 seconds to perform.

Here's how it works: Radio frequency energy travels through a disposable electrode that zaps the endometrial lining, permanently stopping tissue growth.

"You are not removing any organs. You are leaving everything intact, but you are burning and essentially scarring the inside of the uterus," said Dr. Douglas Smith.

While the bleeding may be gone, premenstrual symptoms like bloating and tenderness remain.

"All this is doing is scarring the uterus, but the whole hormonal system which causes the period or which causes the women to ovulate, we are not altering at all," Smith said.

Studies show 40 percent of patients stop bleeding completely. The remaining 60 percent have a significant reduction in flow.

One patient, Cathy Al-Bocas, said before the procedure, her menstrual periods lasted for up to 10 days, and the flow and cramping were unbearable.

Now, she's pleased with the results.

"I feel great," she said. "I can get up and go any time I want without worrying about when it's coming."

Novasure is not advised for women who want to have children. And while the endometrial lining is destroyed, it is not considered a contraceptive procedure.

Additional Resources:

• NovaSure FAQs
• Procedure Animation