A doctor gives you an injection of a progestin (a higher dose than the pill) in your arm or buttocks every 12 to 13 weeks. After one year, more than 50 per cent of women stop menstruating.
Benefits and drawbacks: It's 99.7 per cent effective and can be used by women who can't take estrogen. It may also improve symptoms of endometriosis and decrease your risk of endometrial cancer. On the other hand, it can cause irregular bleeding, weight gain and short-term bone-density loss, which is reversed when you stop the injections.
Our expert says: "The medication is in your system for three months," says Zaltz, which is a drawback if you experience unpleasant side-effects.
Transdermal patch
You apply the patch once a week (anywhere except on your breasts), beginning on the first day of your menstrual cycle. The patch should be changed on the same day each week for three weeks, followed by one week without it. It releases estrogen and a progestin into your bloodstream.
Benefits and drawbacks: The patch is 99.7 per cent effective if used as directed. It helps regulate your periods and curbs menstrual cramping, but it can cause irregular bleeding or spotting, breast tenderness, headaches and nausea.
Our expert says: "The big pro is the estrogen doesn't go through your liver, as does the estrogen in oral contraceptives," says Prior.
Intrauterine system (Mirena IUS)
Mirena is a T-shaped device that is fitted and inserted into your uterus by your physician. Unlike the intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD), Mirena does not have a copper wire around it and it contains the hormone levonorgestrel, which is released slowly over time. It can be left in place and is effective for up to five years.
Benefits and drawbacks: Mirena does not contain estrogen and is 99.99 per cent effective when it is used properly and remains in place. Although it may initially cause an increase in menstrual bleeding and cramping, after a few months it can actually reduce these symptoms. Thirty to 70 per cent of women who use an IUS stop having their periods. While rare, insertion of the IUS can puncture your uterus, requiring that the IUS be removed. The good news is this doesn't usually cause any long-term damage or concern.
Our expert says: "It's very popular, does not fall out very often, and provides a low dose of the hormone levonorgestrel that is mostly confined to your uterus," says Zaltz.
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