Endometrial Ablation

Endometrial ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that doesn't require incisions and removes or thins part of the uterine lining to reduce or stop abnormal bleeding. The procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes to perform, and many patients return to normal daily activities within a day or two. In most cases, the expert staff at The Women's Group performs endometrial ablation as an outpatient procedure, which means the patient returns home the same day the procedure is complete. Because it's minimally invasive, endometrial ablation often involves less discomfort and a shorter recovery time than more invasive surgical treatments for abnormal bleeding.

The expert medical staff at The Women's Group recommends endometrial ablation to patients who want to reduce or eliminate bleeding from the uterus. For some women, menstrual flow may stop completely after endometrial ablation. Our staff recommends endometrial ablation for patients with extremely heavy menstrual bleeding, bleeding that lasts longer than 7 days, or anemia related to menstrual bleeding.

During endometrial ablation, the patient first receives regional or general anesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. The doctor then dilates the cervix and passes specialized instruments into the uterus to remove or thin the uterine lining. There are several different endometrial ablation techniques, including radiofrequency, thermal balloon, and cryoablation, and doctors select the method best suited to each patient's needs. The entire procedure is typically completed in less than an hour, and most patients are able to go home the same day.

Though rare, potential risks after endometrial ablation include infection, bleeding, and injury to nearby organs.

It's also important to know that endometrial ablation is not a form of birth control. While pregnancy after the procedure is uncommon, it can happen, and it carries a much higher risk of serious complications, including miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, and abnormal placement of the placenta. Because of these risks, our medical staff does not recommend endometrial ablation for patients who hope to have children in the future, and we recommend that all patients use a reliable method of birth control after the procedure. If you think you may be pregnant after endometrial ablation, contact The Women's Group right away.

Immediately after the procedure, patients may experience cramping, nausea, vaginal discharge, and frequent urination. These symptoms are common and typically improve within the first few days. Light bleeding or watery discharge may continue for a few weeks, often heaviest in the first 48 to 72 hours, and most patients are able to return to their normal activities within about two days.

Your provider will let you know when it's safe to resume activities such as exercise, sex, or using tampons, generally once bleeding and discharge have fully stopped. It can take up to six months to experience the full effect of the procedure, though most women notice lighter periods, and for some, menstruation stops entirely.

Although rare, pregnancy is still possible after endometrial ablation, so our team recommends using a reliable method of birth control afterward. If you experience heavy bleeding, signs of infection, or symptoms that don't improve as expected, contact The Women's Group right away.

Endometrial ablation may be a good option for women who experience heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding that hasn't improved with medication and who do not wish to become pregnant in the future. In some cases, medication alone can reduce or eliminate abnormal bleeding, avoiding the need for surgery altogether, so our providers typically explore these options with you first. Endometrial ablation is not recommended for women who are pregnant, have certain uterine or cervical conditions, or hope to have children in the future. Women interested in learning more about whether endometrial ablation is right for them should schedule an appointment with The Women's Group.