What happens to periods after HIFU?
HIFU targets the fibroid and leaves the uterus itself and the ovaries in place, so the menstrual cycle continues. In women whose heavy bleeding was caused by the fibroid, the reduction in flow develops not immediately but over the months in which the treated tissue is absorbed. Spotting or an unusual pattern can occur in the first one or two cycles; this is considered temporary, but heavy and prolonged bleeding should be reported to the centre.
Why do periods continue?
Menstrual bleeding is governed by the uterine lining (endometrium) and ovarian hormones. HIFU inactivates fibroid tissue by heating it at the focus; the uterine wall, the lining and the ovaries are not the target. Menopause is therefore not expected after HIFU; stopping periods is neither the aim nor the usual result of this method.
What can be seen in the first months
- Spotting or light discharge in the days after the procedure.
- Flow and duration differing from usual in the first one or two cycles.
- With fibroids next to the cavity, passage of inactivated tissue fragments (rare; needs physician follow-up).
Improvement in symptom scores and bleeding-related complaints after focused ultrasound has been reported to increase over the months of follow-up.
How quickly the effect settles depends on the rate of tissue absorption; the first check is usually at 3 months.
Source: 2022 · International Journal of Hyperthermia
When to call the centre
Heavy and prolonged bleeding, clots with dizziness, fever, foul-smelling discharge or increasing pain are not part of the expected course. Report these without delay; the follow-up programme provides a channel for exactly these situations.
Comparative studies report low rates of serious complications after HIFU; bleeding-related complaints have mostly fallen into the class that is temporary and manageable with conservative follow-up.
Rates vary with patient selection and centre experience; this page does not predict individual risk.
Source: 2021 · Frontiers in Oncology