Endometrial ablation is a surgical procedure that destroys the lining of the uterus. It’s used to treat heavy menstrual bleeding, and it’s one of the most common gynecological procedures performed in the United States. Book an appointment with Dr. Wanda Torres in Florida. If you’re considering endometrial ablation, here’s what you need to know.
Understanding Endometrial Ablation
Endometrial ablation is a surgical treatment option for women who experience heavy periods, also known as menorrhagia. During endometrial ablation, the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) is removed through thermal coagulation. Heating the tissue with electricity, radiofrequency energy, or laser light causes the endometrial tissue to shed and be absorbed by the body.
The doctor can use radiofrequency and microwave energy to destroy the endometrial tissue. It will cause the uterus lining to shed and be absorbed by the body. The procedure is quick and takes about 30 minutes. It can be performed in an outpatient or ambulatory surgical center and is usually done under general anesthesia to minimize discomfort.
How Effective is Endometrial Ablation?
Endometrial ablation can be an effective treatment option for women who experience heavy periods, but it may not work as well if you have adenomyosis or a large fibroid. If the woman’s problem is caused by cervical stenosis (a condition where the opening of the cervix becomes small or partially blocked), endometrial ablation can also be an effective treatment.
Who is the Right Candidate for Endometrial Ablation?
Endometrial ablation may be right for you if:
- The amount of uterine bleeding you experience is severe enough to disrupt your life or interfere with work and social activities.
- If you have fibroids, noncancerous tumors grow in and around the uterus. While they’re not always symptomatic, women with fibroids often experience heavy periods, pelvic pain, and bladder or bowel problems.
- If you show adenomyosis symptoms, adenomyosis is when the endometrial tissue invades the uterine muscles. The result is abnormally heavy menstrual bleeding, pain during periods, and other symptoms similar to fibroids.
What to Expect After an Endometrial Ablation Procedure
Endometrial ablation is a surgery that can reduce heavy bleeding without removing the uterus. It typically takes about 30 minutes and requires only local anesthesia, so you’ll need someone to transport you home following your procedure. You may be able to go home within one or two hours after your surgery.
Benefits of Endometrial Ablation
Endometrial ablation addresses the cause of heavy periods rather than simply treating the symptoms. It can reduce or even eliminate menstrual bleeding, allowing patients to get back to their everyday lives quickly. Endometrial ablation is an effective procedure for women with abnormal uterine bleeding who are not candidates for hysterectomy.
Endometrial ablation is a surgical treatment option for women who experience heavy periods. It can be an effective treatment option, but it may not work as well if you have adenomyosis or a large fibroid. If the woman’s problem is caused by cervical stenosis (a condition where the opening of the cervix becomes small or partially blocked), endometrial ablation can also be an effective treatment.
