Endometrial ablation
Endometrial ablation is a procedure used to destroy the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium). There are different ways to do endometrial ablation, such as with a laser, electricity, or heat.
Endometrial ablation may be done to reduce heavy, prolonged menstrual bleeding or other abnormal uterine bleeding. The lining of the uterus heals by scarring. Scarring usually reduces or prevents bleeding.
Why is endometrial ablation done?
Endometrial ablation is used to control heavy, prolonged uterine bleeding when:
- Bleeding has not responded to other treatments.
- You don't plan to get pregnant in the future.
- You prefer not to have a hysterectomy to control bleeding.
- Other medical problems prevent a hysterectomy.
After endometrial ablation: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You passed out (lost consciousness).
- You have chest pain, are short of breath, or cough up blood.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have pain that does not get better after you take pain medicine.
- You cannot pass stools or gas.
- You have vaginal discharge that has increased in amount or smells bad.
- You are sick to your stomach or cannot drink fluids.
- You have signs of infection, such as:
- Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
- A fever.
- You have severe vaginal bleeding. This means that you are soaking through your usual pads or tampons every hour for 2 or more hours.
- You have signs of a blood clot in your leg (called a deep vein thrombosis), such as:
- Pain in your calf, back of the knee, thigh, or groin.
- Redness and swelling in your leg.
Watch closely for any changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.
How well does endometrial ablation work?
Most people who have endometrial ablation are pleased with the results. It usually reduces menstrual bleeding or stops periods altogether.
But in some cases, more treatment may be needed several years after endometrial ablation. If you're younger, you are more likely to need a repeat procedure.
How do you prepare for an endometrial ablation?
Procedures can be stressful. This information will help you understand what you can expect. And it will help you safely prepare for your procedure.
Preparing for the procedure
- Be sure you have someone to take you home. Anesthesia and pain medicine will make it unsafe for you to drive or get home on your own.
- Understand exactly what procedure is planned, along with the risks, benefits, and other options.
- If you take a medicine that prevents blood clots, your doctor may tell you to stop taking it before your procedure. Or your doctor may tell you to keep taking it. (These medicines include aspirin and other blood thinners.) Make sure that you understand exactly what your doctor wants you to do.
- Tell your doctor ALL the medicines, vitamins, supplements, and herbal remedies you take. Some may increase the risk of problems during your procedure. Your doctor will tell you if you should stop taking any of them before the procedure and how soon to do it.
- Make sure your doctor and the hospital have a copy of your advance directive. If you don’t have one, you may want to prepare one. It lets others know your health care wishes. It’s a good thing to have before any type of surgery or procedure.
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