Endometrial ablation is a quick, outpatient procedure that gently removes the endometrial lining of the uterus (called the ‘endometrium’) to control bleeding. Our clinic performs this procedure safely in the office. The endometrial lining of the uterus is shed monthly during your period. Removing the endometrial lining decreases menstrual blood flow, and in many cases, stops it completely.
This procedure is an alternative to a hysterectomy for women with heavy uterine bleeding who wish to avoid a hysterectomy. Women who have had a successful endometrial ablation will have light to normal periods, and some women will have no menstrual bleeding at all. The endometrium, however, has regenerative properties and some women’s heavy bleeding may recur.
Only women no longer desiring to have children are treated in this manner. Once the lining cells of the uterus are destroyed by the procedure, there is no place for a developing fetus to attach within the uterus. If some cells remain following an endometrial ablation, there exists the possibility of pregnancy occuring. If pregnancy were to occur, doctors are concerned that without adequate cells lining the inside of the uterus, the placenta would grow directly into the muscle wall of the uterus and take hold like the roots of a tree. As a result, the placenta would not be able to separate at the time of delivery, and hemorrhage could occur. This procedure is not a form of birth control and another method of birth control must still be used to avoid pregnancy. Talk to your doctor about recommended forms of birth control or even permanent sterilization.
You most likely will be given some form of pain relief or sedative to help you relax before the procedure. The type of pain relief used depends on the type of ablation procedure, where it is done, and your wishes. Discuss this with your doctor.There are no incisions (cuts) involved in ablation. Recovery takes about 2 hours, depending on the type of pain relief used. Some minor side effects are common after endometrial ablation:
Your doctor will arrange follow-up visits to check your progress. It may take a few months to achieve results.
If you are interested in learning more about endometrial ablation or feel this would benefit you, contact our clinic at 232-6100.
The options available at the Pocatello Women’s Health Clinic are: