Endometrial Ablation
What is it?
Endometrial ablation is a procedure, not a surgery, that removes the lining of the uterus to reduce or stop menstrual flow completely. Most types of endometrial ablation take place in your doctor’s office, using topical anesthesia. Some types of endometrial ablation may require total anesthesia, in which case they are performed in the hospital. It does not require an incision to be made, as your healthcare provider inserts small tools through your vagina to reach your uterine lining.
There are different methods for this, some of which include:
- Use of an electric current that travels through a wire loop
- Heated fluids that are pumped into the uterus to destroy the lining
- Radio waves, which are sent into the uterus through an electrical mesh your provider expands
- Application of very cold temperature using a probe to freeze the lining
- Microwaves sent in the uterus through a thin probe
Why is it done and who needs it?
The main reason for endometrial ablation is experiencing excessive blood loss during menstruation—to the extent where you need to change your tampon or pad every hour. Another reason can be abnormally long periods that last more than eight days or experiencing bleeding in between periods.
Typically, when your menstrual bleeding needs to be reduced doctors will usually either prescribe medications or an IUD. If these options don’t have the expected results, endometrial ablation is considered as an option.
Risks
Although complications in endometrial ablation procedures are rare, they may include pain, bleeding, or even infection. Possible injuries to nearby organs are also possible, either because of the hear or cold used, or because of the surgical instruments.
Another possible complication is a higher risk pregnancy. Even though pregnancies can occur if you have undergone endometrial ablation, you want to closely monitor your pregnancy, especially as it may lead to an ectopic pregnancy or even miscarriage.
In Preparation
It cannot be performed if you are pregnant or if you have IUD in place. Perhaps more rare but significant is that you will be tested for cancer through a small sample of your endometrium.
The endometrial ablation works best if the uterine lining is thin, so you might either be prescribed medication for that, or your doctor might perform a procedure where they scrape off the extra tissue—known as dilation and curettage.
Particularly important is to discuss anesthesia options with your doctor beforehand, as some methods require general anesthesia, while others can be performed with sedation or numbing shots.
After the Procedure
The results of the procedure may take a few months to become visible, and they differ among women: some may experience lighter periods, while others may notice their period stopping completely.
You may experience different reactions right after the procedure, which include menstrual-like cramps that can be soothed with over-the-counter medication, vaginal discharge that will most likely be present the first few days after the procedure, as well as frequent urination within the first 24 hours.