One out of five American women, age 35 and up, suffers from heavy periods that are so debilitating that they interfere with work and everyday activities. In fact, the condition, clinically known as menhorragia, is so common among premenopausal women that it can be referred to as the "common cold" of gynecology. Menhorragia is also more common in women with hypothyroidism; heavy periods can, in fact, be a symptom of undiagnosed or undertreated hypothyroidism.

Karin Coburn's story is typical. In her 40s, her monthly periods became unbearable, affecting every aspect of her life. "I suffered from lack of sleep. I felt tired at work. I couldn't participate in physical activities. I felt like a prisoner in my own home."

While Coburn was willing to do "almost anything" to treat the problem, she wanted more choices beyond the standard treatments of hormones, such as birth control pills, or hysterectomy.

"I didn't want the pill because of the hormones," she admitted. "Having a hysterectomy was also an option provided to me, but it's very final."

Coburn isn't alone in her frustration. According to a recent survey of women with heavy periods, more than 65 percent of women said they would prefer to avoid taking hormones, and 60 percent would rather not take a pill on a daily basis. More than half would not consider having a hysterectomy.

"Many women with this condition are unaware that there are options beyond hormones and hysterectomies that can effectively treat this problem," says Kathryn Pruzinsky, M.D., University of California, San Diego School of Medicine.

One such option is endometrial ablation, a minimally invasive, non-hormonal treatment that requires no incision, takes as little as 30 minutes, is simple and can be performed under local anesthesia. Uterine balloon therapy is one type of endometrial ablation technique where, unlike a hysterectomy, a woman can preserve her uterus. Recovery is fast and easy and most patients can return to work and everyday activities in one day.

"Women have long-term solutions available to them," says Dr. Pruzinsky. "But they need to discuss with their doctors what they want when it comes to treating their condition."

After undergoing uterine balloon therapy, Coburn's heavy periods were resolved. "My period became very incidental. It was not something I had to base my whole existence around. A weight has been lifted off my shoulders."

Uterine balloon therapy is not for those still planning to have children. All surgeries present risks. For more information, visit controlheavyperiods.com or talk to your doctor.