Endometrial ablation is a procedure that removes the lining of the uterus.Purpose of Endometrial Ablation
Endometrial ablation is used to treat menorrhagia (heavy menstrual periods) when other medications and treatment options have been unsuccessful.
How is Endometrial Ablation Performed?
A thin portion of the uterine lining is destroyed to control heavy bleeding. There are several techniques that can be used for the endometrial ablation procedure. Some options can be performed in the doctor’s office, while others require hospitalization and general anesthesia.
The cervix is dilated, and the uterine lining is destroyed using one of following methods:
- Free-flowing heated fluid
- Heated balloon
- Freezing
- Microwave probe
- Radiofrequency
- Electrosurgery
After Endometrial Ablation
The procedure will stop menstruation for most women, although in some cases it reduces menstrual bleeding to a normal or light flow.
Symptoms following the endometrial ablation procedure may persist for several days. These include: heavy vaginal discharge, frequent urination and menstrual-like cramps. A lighter vaginal discharge may persist for a few weeks following the procedure.
Fertility Following Endometrial Ablation
After endometrial ablation, the chances of becoming pregnant are significantly reduced. For women who do become pregnant after the procedure, the rates of miscarriage or other problems are much higher. Birth control must be used until after menopause following an endometrial ablation.
Endometrial ablation is not recommended for women who were recently pregnant or would like to become pregnant.