Endometrial ablation, also called as uterine ablation is the removal of endometrium that lines the uterus. This procedure doesn’t need hospitalization, so women who have heavy uterine bleeding can consider this procedure instead of considering a major surgery.
When to consider endometrial ablation procedure
- If bleeding makes you tired and anemic
- If activities are limited because of heavy bleeding
- If bleeding controls spending intimate time with your partner
- If you don’t get any recovery through other procedures
- If childbearing process is completed
- If hysterectomy is not possible because of some other health problems
Procedure for endometrial ablation
Endometrial ablation procedure usually takes half an hour time. During the procedure, a telescope called as hysteroscope is inserted into the vagina and cervix so that your surgeon can see the womb. Then special instruments are used in order to remove the lining of the womb.
Diathermy: In this procedure, low voltage electric signals are passed by using a wire loop or a ball shaped sensor in order to burn the lining of your womb.
Laser ablation: In this method, high energy light beams are passed to burn womb lining.
Microwave endometrial ablation: Heat producing from microwaves is used to destroy womb lining.
Heated fluid: A balloon shaped device filled with fluid is inserted into the womb. Then the fluid is heated in order to destroy womb lining.
Your practitioner assesses your medical history to determine whether endometrial ablation is right for you. Also, various other tests are conducted such as ultrasonography, hysteroscopy, blood tests and uterine lining sampling.
Recovering from endometrial ablation procedure
If you want pain relief, you can take over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen and paracetamol. Avoid using tampons for at least a month after undergoing endometrial ablation to lower the risk of infection.
If you experience any of the following signs after the procedure, immediately consult your doctor:
- Severe pain
- Heavy bleeding
- High temperature
- Dark or unpleasant smelling vaginal discharge
- Pain exists for more than 2 days
You need to wait for 3-6 months to see whether the procedure is successful. Some women will have lighter periods after undergoing the procedure, but some others won’t get their periods.
Risks associated with endometrial ablation procedure
Generally, the procedure is safe, but you need to be aware of the possible side effects of this procedure.
- You feel sick because of general anesthesia.
- You will have little discomfort, same as period pain and it lasts for few days.
- You will have vaginal bleeding same as normal menstrual cycle and lasts up to a month.
The complications associated with endometrial ablation are rare, but can include:
- Infection to your womb – Antibiotics can treat this condition.
- Damage to your womb, cervix or vagina or a part of the bowel – It needs additional surgery to cure the damage.
